By pursuing a marriage and family therapy degree, you can begin the journey towards creating a positive impact in the lives of others. You may be wondering where to start and how you can find and apply for programs that best fit your needs. There are many MFT programs available both online and in person that can help you fulfill your goals of becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist. Perhaps you have already completed your bachelor’s degree and are ready to reach for higher education. Here you will find a guide on marriage and family programs that do not require the Graduate Records Examination (GRE), and you can begin your process towards a helpful, rewarding career by entering the program using your other professional and academic accomplishments.
What Is a No-GRE MFT program?
A no GRE MFT program is a master’s degree program that prepares students for future practice in the field of mental health and, more specifically, in the career of marriage and family therapy. Marriage and Family Therapy is one of a few mental health focused disciplines, with social work, psychology, and counseling being other large disciplines. Programs that require a GRE and those that do not can be, and usually are, equal in quality.
Why are MFT’s Important?
Marriage and family therapists are very important when it comes to helping people improve their lives. Studies show that MFTs are very effective and lead people to feel more positive about themselves or others in their lives. Marriage and family therapy is brief, solution-focused, and family-centered, with demonstrated effectiveness.
What is a GRE?
A GRE stands for the Graduate Records Examination, which is a standardized test that assists universities in determining which students are capable of taking on graduate-level coursework. However, more and more schools are beginning to accept students without requiring them to take the GRE, and instead are beginning to have a more holistic view of a student’s qualifications for entrance, including their professional and academic achievements that go beyond a single examination, such as their references, GPA, and personal statement. This is important because the educational world is discovering that students are capable of succeeding in ways that exams aren’t always capable of demonstrating. If you feel that this is you, pursuing a marriage and family program without a GRE requirement might be the best option for higher education.
An MFT program is a comprehensive set of courses that teach many topics to prepare students to confidently enter the world as knowledgeable therapists.
Some concepts that will be discussed within a no GRE MFT program include:
- A significant understanding of the way that families function, as well as the way that relationships affect daily lives.
- How a number of mental illnesses develop, as well as how to prevent, diagnose, and treat such illnesses.
- Social issues that make up the way that society functions.
- Psychology and psychiatry.
- Case management and social work.
- An understanding of intersectionality and how it affects the life experiences of individuals.
How to Enroll in an MFT Program With No GRE Requirement
Before applying for an MFT program with no GRE requirement, you want to first have obtained a bachelor’s degree. To increase your chances of success in the MFT program, it helps to have a degree related to the course curriculum you will be taking, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be. However, if the degree is not related, and depending on the school, you may have to complete prerequisite work before applying to the MFT program. After you have earned your bachelor’s degree, you can then begin the process of applying for master’s programs at schools of your choice. This process can vary depending on which university you are considering, but there is a general process you can expect that is outlined below.
- When applying, you can show proof that you maintained good standing at your previous university at which you obtained your bachelor’s degree. This can mean that you completed the required 60 semester units and/or maintained a GPA of at least a 2.0.
- You will then complete the MFT program application, which may require the following (with the potential for variation, or additional requirements depending on your school). Be sure to pay attention to the application window of each individual university, as most schools only open up the window for applying for these programs for a month or so.
a. A personal essay or statement. The prompt may be given ahead of time. Check the university website to find more information so you can prepare ahead of time.
b. Several letters of recommendation from professional references. This may include professors or relevant employers. Again, you might wish to have these ready ahead of time, so you aren’t trying to gather them within a potentially short program application window.
c. A professional or academic resume. Programs want to see that you are dedicated to your field.
d. Participating in the program’s interview process. Some programs are very selective with who they admit, so you may go through an interview process. - You may need to complete the required prerequisite courses to be admitted into the master’s program as outlined by your chosen university.
If you are interested in alternative programs that do not require the GRE, review No GRE Required MSW programs, no GRE masters in counseling programs, and Masters in Psychology Programs with No GRE Requirements.
Benefits to an MFT program with no GRE Requirement
There are many benefits to earning your master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, and by doing so by applying to a program that does not require the GRE, you can rest assured that the full picture of your qualifications will be considered, such as your GPA, personal statement, and professional references.
In general, though, becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist is a rewarding and fulfilling career that may lead to significant job security and a comfortable income. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, licensed marriage and family therapists make between $37,050 and $96,520 on average annually (although this does vary depending on state). LMFTs who work in state government make the most, starting at $77,960 and up.
Other benefits of obtaining a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy and subsequently earning your license include:
- A strong job outlook. The bureau of labor statistics states that the job growth of licensed marriage and family therapists is projected to increase 22%, which is much higher than average for all occupations, as the average job growth sits at 4%. Besides that, many different agencies and organizations need LMFTs to help them care for their clients, patients, and whomever else they may serve.
- The potential for flexible hours. Many job settings need licensed marriage and family therapists available at different times of the day. This means that you could possibly find a job that fits your schedule the best. Many LMFTs also choose to start their own practice, which means that you could schedule your own clients to when you need. This gives you the opportunity for work-life balance.
- Fulfillment within your career. Marriage and family therapy is often held in high regard by employers and patients who receive the service. Helping others through their struggles is a very rewarding experience that can be very fulfilling. You can take pride in knowing that your work is strengthening relationships. Additionally, if you are pursuing this career, it’s possible that you feel called to this path, as many therapists report that they felt that way. Feeling as though you are doing a job you are meant to do is very rewarding.
- Personal growth and learning. While this job presents challenges, it also presents the opportunity to learn and grow constantly, as you are introduced to ever-changing scenarios that you may have never come across before. You will come across new perspectives and have to think about things in ways you may not have previously. Broadening your horizons can be very beneficial and rewarding for your own personal development.
What Will You Learn In a No GRE MFT Program?
The lack of a GRE requirement does not affect the quality of marriage and family therapy programs available. That being said, you will want to choose a program that is accredited, as non-accredited programs might lead you to facing challenges. Accreditation is the best way to go when looking at universities.
Once you have begun your marriage and family therapy program, you can expect the total length of the program to be equivalent to about two years of full time coursework. Some programs have variations of this, such as a three year option, or even a one year option if you obtained your bachelor’s degree in something that covers certain requirements. However, this is specific to each individual program, and is not a general rule.
Within your MFT program, you will engage in a comprehensive course load that covers a wide variety of complex subject matter that will prepare you to handle numerous situations in your future career. The main goal of most schools is to prepare students to become competent therapists for the future. You will be working with people in many different kinds of relationships, backgrounds, and mental health statuses that may be unlike your own. It will be important that you are familiar with how to discuss and treat relationship conflicts and trauma. While the schooling is rigorous, it can lead you to a challenging, but rewarding, career path.
Standard Curriculum and Program Learning Outcomes
Due to standards set by accreditation as well as MFT licensing boards, an overall theme in curriculum emerges even across states in marriage and family therapy programs. While each state has different requirements for their LMFT’s, attending schools without GRE requirements that are accredited will help you transfer your license across state lines should you ever need to do so in the future. No matter where you go through your program, you will likely go through a variation of curriculum that includes these learning outcomes:
- The understanding of concepts and theories related to mental health treatment and counseling as applicable to addressing a variety of mental health concerns from a strengths-based and culturally aware lens.
- The identification and understanding of the legalities and ethical standards that an MFT or professional counselor should practice and how those standards apply within the various contexts and populations in which one might be involved.
- The understanding of marginalization, power, and privilege and its relation to therapy practice and the different perspectives on this subject.
- A practice of self-awareness that leads you to reflection and critically evaluating your actions and behaviors within your mental health practice to improve and better provide treatment to those with a number of different backgrounds.
Throughout the program, you will also develop the ability to:
- Prevent, identify, treat, and provide effective, evidence-based and culturally responsive therapy for a number of mental health diagnoses and relationship conflicts for children, families, individuals, couples, and other relationships. This includes those who are experiencing mental health struggles that can range from mild to severe.
- Demonstrate culturally responsive psychotherapy skills that are necessary for working with a wide range of populations.
- Understand the way that intersectionality impacts the diagnosis that one might receive, including their social norms, environmental variables, cultural values, relationship dynamics, and other complex variables that impact an individual’s development.
- Develop and demonstrate an understanding of trauma. Including symptomatology and issues that one may come across in relation to diagnosis that may affect treatment.
- Conduct effective and continuous research to improve and inform your practice.
Some examples of courses you might take include:
- Relationship Therapy
- Community Mental Health
- Sexuality & Gender Issues
- Research Methods
- Trauma and Crisis Counseling
- Family Systems Therapy
Specializations and Concentrations
Accredited MFT programs that do not require a GRE may give students the option to focus on a specific concentration or take certain courses as a minor or electives in their program. Below are some of the most common electives or concentrations one might find themselves taking in an MFT program.
- Trauma therapy. This track covers the cause and effects of trauma on relationships and other issues.
- Addiction recovery/substance abuse. This will discuss the causes and effects of addiction as well as possible treatments.
- School Counseling. Some MFT’s may wish to counsel others in elementary schools, high schools, or universities. This will involve a similar, but potentially specialized set of skills.
- LGBTQ+ Issues. People in this population tend to have different experiences than those who are not, such as a particular kind of discrimination and types of relationship issues. These courses will go over the particular struggle of the individuals in this group and how to address those struggles.
- Community Health. Addressing the mental and physical health of a community at large can help individuals thrive as well, and vice-versa. Some students may wish to study this larger picture.
- Marital Conflict. While there are different kinds of conflict in every relationship, marriage is unique and presents its own challenges, especially when it comes to things like finances, grief, and separation.
- Early Childhood Development. The way that children experience growing up can affect them for the rest of their lives. This track will show you the causes and effects of how experiences in childhood shape someone to how they are as an adult.
How to Find MFT Programs With No GRE Requirement
When looking for an MFT program with no GRE requirement, you will want to ensure that it is accredited. This is typically done by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE) or the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP). Accreditation means that a program has met high-quality standards set by professionals within organizations that come from academia or relevant industry.
COAMFTE vs. CACREP
COAMFTE programs fulfill the preferences and requirements of most state licensing boards when someone is preparing and applying for licensure. Students may also benefit from this type of accreditation because they may experience a shorter supervised practice post-graduation, as some of their hours will be taken care of during their program.
CACREP programs are held at the same level of prestige and considered the same quality in many states, and is the preferred organization for other counseling disciplines as well as being a respected organization in general. However, some agencies in the United States will not let some graduates practice as a licensed marriage and family therapist if their program was not completed under the COAMFTE.
Benefits of Accreditation
The benefits of accreditation are plentiful. Some benefits of accreditation include:
- Guarantee of high-quality education. Because applying for accreditation is a multi-year process to assure quality, schools must prepare to be analyzed on what they are offering students from top to bottom. Experts in the MFT field who have accredited MFT programs have determined that such programs offer education that holds up to such high standards.
- Transferability of coursework, clinical hours, and completed credits among schools. While each state has different requirements for their programs, programs that are accredited (especially by the COAMFTE) tend to be consistent and thus make it easier for students to transfer credits between schools without having to take additional coursework.
- License portability. Once you have received your license, if you move between states, having gone through an accredited program means that you may have an easier time transferring the license to the new state. While it isn’t guaranteed, similar to the transfer of coursework, accreditation creates a national standard that most employers and states look at as being the gold standard for excellence.
- Employment eligibility. Most employers will only hire, or prefer to hire, candidates who have attended an MFT program that was accredited by COAMFTE or its equivalent (which the CACREP accreditation meets in most circumstances).
- Ability to receive financial aid. If you need assistance paying for your tuition, it’s best to attend an accredited school, as those will allow you to receive any federal financial aid that you may qualify for.
While looking at accredited schools wherein to pursue your degree in marriage and family therapy, remember that many states require a regional accreditation. Regional accreditation is considered to be more rigorous than the other kind: national accreditation. However, national accreditation has benefits as well. Nationally-accredited schools tend to offer more affordable MFT programs, and have lower admissions standards than their regional counterparts. Depending on your circumstances, it may be beneficial to look at both options. That being said, regionally accredited schools are considered the highest form of accreditation that a program can receive. It is the most widely recognized, and it allows students to be accepted at both regionally and nationally accepted schools.
No GRE Marriage and Family Therapy Masters Programs
Now that you are aware that you can apply for a high-quality master’s in marriage and family therapy program without needing to take the GRE, you might be wondering where to start. There are certainly some things to consider when making this consideration such as:
- Online vs. in-person coursework. Each of these options have benefits depending on your lifestyle. Many people who decide to enroll in an MFT program already have full-time jobs, families, or other responsibilities, In this case, online or hybrid coursework might be a good option. In-person classes might be good for people who learn better in a focused environment and enjoy interacting with peers.
- In-state or out-of-state university. In-state universities tend to be more affordable than those out of state. If cost is a factor of consideration for you, deciding to attend a school in your home state may be important. However, attending an out-of-state university might be beneficial if there is one that fits your preferences well.
- Cost of coursework. Like the above, considering the cost of attending your preferred program is something to think about. Cost can vary between universities. Something that can help is applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or other grants and scholarships.
MFT Programs With No GRE Requirement
The following list includes a collection of MFT programs that don't require the GRE. At the bottom of the table you can find some marriage and family programs that we have highlighted.| Name | City | State | Degree Level | Accreditation | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Winnipeg (MMFT) | Winnipeg | AK | Masters | COAMFTE | Marriage & Family Therapy Program | Learn More |
| University of Alabama Birmingham | Birmingham | AL | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Montevallo | Montevallo | AL | M.Ed. | CACREP | M.Ed. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Auburn University (MS) | Auburn | AL | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Science in MFT | Learn More |
| The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa | AL | Masters | COAMFTE | Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Arizona State University | Tempe, | AZ | Masters | COAMFTE | Marriage and Family Therapy, MAS | Learn More |
| Northcentral University | Scottsdale | AZ | Masters | COAMFTE | Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Irvine | Irvine | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Los Angeles (MA) | Alhambra | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Sacramento (MA) | Sacramento | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - San Diego | San Diego | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Irvine | Irvine | CA | Doctoral | COAMFTE | PsyD in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Antioch University | Los Angeles | CA | Masters | HLC | MA in Clinical Psychology | Learn More |
| Antioch University | Santa Barbara | CA | Masters | HLC | MA in Clinical Psychology | Learn More |
| Bethel Seminary (MA) | San Diego | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Biola University | La Mirada | CA | Masters | WSCUC | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Cal State Polytechnic | San Luis Obispo | CA | Masters | WSCUC | Master of Science (M.S.) in Psychology with Preparation for MFT | Learn More |
| California Lutheran University | Thousand Oaks | CA | Masters | WASC | MS in Counseling Psychology (MFT) | Learn More |
| California Southern University | Costa Mesa | CA | Masters | HLC | Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology, with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| California State University, Bakersfield | Bakersfield | CA | Masters | CACREP | Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| California State University, Chico | Chico | CA | Masters | CACREP | Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| California State University, Fullerton | Fullerton | CA | Masters | CACREP | Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| California State University, Long Beach | Long Beach | CA | Masters | CACREP | Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| California State University, Los Angeles | Los Angeles | CA | Masters | CACREP | Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| California State University, Sacramento | Sacramento | CA | Masters | CACREP | Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Chicago School of Professional Psychology | Los Angeles | CA | Masters | WSCUC | Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology: Marital and Family Therapy Specialization | Learn More |
| Hope International University (MA) | Fullerton | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Loma Linda University | Loma Linda | CA | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Doctor of Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Loma Linda University | Loma Linda | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MS in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Northcentral University | San Diego | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Northcentral University | San Diego | CA | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Doctor of philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Palo Alto University | Palo Alto | CA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| San Diego State University | San Diego | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Touro University Worldwide | Los Alamitos | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of San Diego | San Diego | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Adams State University | Alamosa | CO | M.A | CACREP | Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Learn More |
| Colorado Christian University | Colorado | CO | Masters | CACREP | Online Master's in Counseling with a Focus on Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Colorado at Denver | Denver | CO | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Northern Colorado, College of Education and Behavioral Sciences | Greeley | CO | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Regis University | Thornton | CO | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Colorado Denver | Denver | CO | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | CO | Masters | COAMFTE | MS in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Southern Connecticut State University | New Haven | CT | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Saint Joseph | West Hartford | CT | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Central Connecticut State University | New Britain | CT | Masters | COAMFTE | MS in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Central Florida | Orlando | FL | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Barry University | Miami Shores | FL | M.S | CACREP | M.S in Marital, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Stetson University | DeLand | FL | M.S. | CACREP | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Florida | Gainesville | FL | M.S./Ed.S. | CACREP | M.S./Ed.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Valdosta State University (MS) | Valdosta | GA | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Georgia (PhD) | Athens | GA | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Mount Mercy University (MA) | Cedar Rapids | IA | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Idaho State University | Pocatello | ID | M. Coun. | CACREP | M. Coun. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Northwest Nazarene University | Nampa | ID | M.S. | CACREP | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Governors State University | University Park | IL | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Northeastern Illinois University | Chicago | IL | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Illinois Springfield | Springfield | IL | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Northern Illinois University (MS) | DeKalb | IL | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Wheaton College Graduate School (MA) | Wheaton | IL | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Northwestern University, The Family Institute (MS) Online | Evanston | IL | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Christian Theological Seminary | Indianapolis | IN | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Indiana Wesleyan University - Indianapolis (MA) | Indianapolis | IN | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Indiana Wesleyan University - Marion (MA) | Marion | IN | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Purdue University Northwest | Hammond | IN | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S in Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Indiana Wesleyan University - Online (MA) | Indianapolis | IN | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| MidAmerica Nazarene University | Olathe | KS | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Friends University - Kansas City (MS) | Overland Park | KS | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Science in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Kansas State University (PhD) | Manhattan | KS | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Doctorate in Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Friends University (MS) | Wichita | KS | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Science in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Kansas State University (MS) | Manhattan | KS | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Science in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green | KY | M.A.E. | CACREP | M.A.E. in in Education in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (MA) | Louisville | KY | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Campbellsville University (MMFT) | Louisville | KY | Masters | COAMFTE | Marriage and family therapy | Learn More |
| University of Louisville (MSSW) | Louisville | KY | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Science in Social Work | Learn More |
| Loyola University New Orleans | New Orleans | LA | M.S. | CACREP | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Southeastern Louisiana University | Hammond | LA | M.S. | CACREP | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Holy Cross | New Orleans | LA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Maryland (MS) | College Park | MD | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Western Michigan University | Kalamazoo | MI | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, couple and family counseling | Learn More |
| Walden University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. | CACREP | MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling specialization | Learn More |
| Saint Mary's University of Minnesota (MA) | Minneapolis | MN | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Minnesota (PhD) | St. Paul | MN | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Ph.D. in Couple & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Mississippi College | Clinton | MS | M.S. | CACREP | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Montana State University | Bozeman | MT | M.S. | CACREP | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| North Carolina A & T State University | GREENSBORO | NC | Masters | COAMFTE | Marriage and Family Therapy Certificate | Learn More |
| Antioch University New England (MA) | Keene | NH | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of New Hampshire (MS) | Durham | NH | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Antioch University New England (PhD) | Keene | NH | Doctoral | COAMFTE | PhD in Couple & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Nevada, Reno | Reno | NV | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Nevada, Las Vegas (MS) | Las Vegas | NV | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Nyack College (MA) | New York | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Iona College (MS) | New Rochelle | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Rochester (MS) | Rochester | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (PhD) | Syracuse | NY | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Marriage & Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Hofstra University | Hempstead | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| University of Akron (MA) | Akron | OH | Masters | COAMFTE | Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Ohio State University (PhD) | Columbus | OH | Doctoral | COAMFTE | PhD in Human Development and Family Science | Learn More |
| Oklahoma State University (MS) | Stillwater | OK | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Central Oklahoma | Norman | OK | Masters | COAMFTE | Masters in Science Family and child studies | Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University | Oklahoma City | OK | Masters | NCA | Master’s in Family Therapy to Strengthen Couples and Families | Learn More |
| George Fox University | Portland | OR | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Portland State University | Portland | OR | M.A./M.S. | CACREP | M.A./M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Oregon (MS) | Eugene | OR | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Lewis and Clark College (MCFT) | Portland | OR | Masters | COAMFTE | Marriage, Couple & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Oregon Institute of Technology | Klamath Falls | OR | Masters | COAMFTE | Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Kutztown University | Kutztown | PA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Duquesne University | Pittsburgh | PA | M.S.Ed. | CACREP | M.S.Ed. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Geneva College | Beaver Falls | PA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Messiah University (previously Messiah College) | Mechanicsburg | PA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Evangelical Theological Seminary (MA) | Myerstown | PA | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| LaSalle University (MA) | Philadelphia | PA | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Drexel University (MFT) | Philadelphia | PA | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| drexel university | Philadelphia | PA | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Rhode Island (MS) | Kingston | RI | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Human Development and Family Science | Learn More |
| University of South Carolina | Winston-Salem | SC | Masters | CACREP | Counselor Education, Ed.S. (Marriage, Couples & Family Counseling) | Learn More |
| University of South Carolina, College of Education | Columbia | SC | Ed.S. | CACREP | Ed.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Converse University - University Center of Greenville | Greenville | SC | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Converse University (MMFT) | Spartanburg | SC | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of South Carolina | Winston-Salem | SC | Masters | CACREP | Counselor Education, Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Belmont University | Nashville | TN | M.A. | CACREP | M.A in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Lee University (MS) | Cleveland | TN | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| St. Edward's University | Austin | TX | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | TX | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton | TX | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | TX | M.S. | CACREP | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville | TX | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (MS) | Lubbock | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (PhD) | Lubbock | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - Houston (MS) | Houston | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of The Lake University - Rio Grande Valley | La Feria | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - San Antonio (MS) | San Antonio | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (MS) | Fort Worth | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (MS) | Denton | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University (MMFT) | Abilene | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (PhD) | Fort Worth | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (PhD) | Denton | TX | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Ph.D. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University Online (MMFT) | Dallas | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Utah State University (MS) | Logan | UT | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Utah Valley State University | Orem | UT | Masters | Seeking COAMFTE Accreditation | Master of Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Liberty University, Counselor Education & Family Studies | Lynchburg | VA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| College of William and Mary | Williamsburg | VA | M.Ed. | CACREP | M.Ed. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Regent University | Virginia Beach | VA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Blacksburg (PhD) | Blacksburg | VA | Doctoral | COAMFTE | Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy Concentration | Learn More |
| Virginia Tech | Blacksburg | VA | Masters | COAMFTE | Virginia Tech’s marriage and family therapy doctoral program | Learn More |
| City University of Seattle | Seattle | WA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Gonzaga University | Spokane | WA | M.A. | CACREP | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Seattle University (MA) | Seattle | WA | Masters | COAMFTE | M.A in Couples and Family Theraphy | Learn More |
| Antioch University Seattle (MA) | Seattle | WA | Masters | COAMFTE | MA in Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Pacific Lutheran University (MA) | Tacoma | WA | Masters | COAMFTE | Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Wisconsin Stout (MS) | Menomonie | WI | Masters | COAMFTE | M.S. Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Wyoming | Laramie | WY | Ph.D. | CACREP | Ph.D. in Counselong Education and Supervision | Learn More |
Pepperdine University – This regionally-accredited program features a MA in clinical psychology program that can be completed in as few as 27 months.
- This program is available online.
- Cost: $1,770 per unit
Northwestern University – This COAMFTE-accredited program offers an MFT program that can be completed in as few as 24 months of full-time coursework.
- This program is available online.
- Cost: $7,372 per unit.
In-Person MFT Programs With No GRE Requirement
University of Rochester – This COAMFTE-accredited program offers a Master’s of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in a clinical practice/hospital site as opposed to a typical college campus setting.
- This program is available in person.
- Cost: $1,890 per credit hour.
California State University, Sacramento – This regionally-accredited program offers a Master’s of Science in Counseling with a requirement of 60 units for completion. They also offer different concentration options for student’s diverse interests.
- This program is available in person.
- Cost: $396 per unit.
Scholarships and Grants Available for a No GRE MFT Program
The best first step towards paying for a master’s in marriage and family therapy degree is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA allows you to see what if you qualify for federal grants and low-interest loans, all in one free process. One important note about the FAFSA is that you will need to fill out the form before each new academic year that you want to attend school.
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
