Online Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy

A master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) is a degree consisting of a curriculum focusing on the psychological theories and therapeutic practices to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals within a family unit. In recent years, upon the onset of the pandemic, more institutions have pushed for the accessibility of graduate degrees making professional education more attainable at your convenience, including flexibility in coursework and clinical training. MFT programs in general have improved in accessibility leading to a variety of options for you to choose from that best fit your educational and ultimate career goals. 

Why are graduate-level trained Marriage and Family Therapists important?

Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are mental health professionals specializing in the assessment, analysis, and treatment of psychological and interrelationship issues presented by individuals and their influence on the family unit. MFTs specialize in family dynamics and focus on a systems perspective, which differentiates them from other mental health professionals such as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) or Licensed Psychological Associates (LPA) that have a more general approach to assessment and treatment in a clinical setting. Marriage and Family Therapy is typically structured to be solution-focused and on average takes ten to twelve sessions. The therapist and clients collaboratively identify and set treatment goals that they revisit and work towards over the course of treatment. 

Overview of a Master’s in MFT Degree

Marriage and Family Therapy Degrees are structured to ensure students are on track to attain licensure upon graduation. Most MFT programs average two years in length (60-credit hours) and include relevant coursework along with clinical practicum training. Some programs offer the option of a thesis track or an applied paper track. The length of your program may vary depending on what your choice with these options may be. For example, Texas Woman’s University offers a thesis option, where you would complete an empirical research project that adds to the literature of the field and is an opportunity to tap into the research and investigative area of MFT. Universities like Northcentral University offer an applied paper option that is an in-depth case conceptualization of a clinical experience of your choosing. The applied paper focuses more on the practical and therapeutic processes you have worked through. 

Depending on your interests, you would want to identify if a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Arts (MA) in MFT is better suited for you. An MS program typically emphasizes scientific research as a requirement for successful graduation and often would have a thesis track built into the program requirements which sets you up for a Ph.D. should you decide to pursue further education (e.g. Texas Tech University). An MA in MFT emphasizes the clinical aspects of MFT where you would have the option to choose a clinical applied paper and there is a lesser focus on research (e.g. Syracuse University). 

What Will You Learn in an MFT Graduate Program?

In completion of the required 60-credit-hour curricula, most MFT programs are designed to fulfill the course requirements for state licensure of where the university is based. The following outlines some courses general to most programs. You will learn how to assess issues within the family system using established theoretical guidelines, diagnose individuals based on criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), and provide evidence-based treatment to diverse populations that may seek mental health treatment. Clinical training typically occurs during the last year of the program where you would receive in-depth supervised clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and/or families. Here, you would accumulate practical knowledge of creating treatment plans, report writing, and other processes that go into the daily work of being an LMFT.

What happens after graduation?

Nearing graduation is an exciting time in general, and with that comes the preparation for what life after graduation would be like. Working as a mental health professional requires licensure by your state board. In order to practice as an MFT, you would have to be licensed by your state board as appointed by the AAMFT. The general requirements by most states include the successful completion of required core coursework, successful completion of the licensing examination (as regulated by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB)), and applying for licensure. Initially, you would receive probationary licensure as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy-Associate. You will be able to work as an MFT but would have to receive clinical supervision for about two years, before being able to receive full licensure and practice independently as an LMFT. 

While in the last year of your graduate program, it is important to use your clinical practicum experience as an opportunity to figure out which work environments and demographics best align with your career interests. Typically, graduate programs provide assistance with searching for practicum placements, however, you are able to look for any clinical setting that can provide you with the appropriate board-approved supervised clinical experience required by your program.

What Are Accredited Marriage and Family Therapy Masters Programs?

Typically individuals that pursue a graduate degree in mental health aim to practice as a licensed clinician upon graduation. It is important to choose a program that is accredited by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT). Accreditation means that the program requirements are in accordance with those of AAMFT and your state licensing board. For a program to maintain its accreditation status, it must uphold and fulfill the requirements of the accreditation governing body, which ensures the quality of the program, and its ability to produce competent clinicians for the field. Most states require that candidates graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), or by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

COAMFTE Accredited Masters Programs

The COAMFTE accreditation board of higher level education pertaining specifically to marriage and family therapy programs. COAMFTE accredits graduate programs such as master’s degrees, doctoral programs, and post-doctoral certifications by ensuring the program’s coursework and clinical training requirements produce competent clinicians within the field and prepares graduates from accredited programs to easily procure licensure upon graduation. This accreditation extends to some online graduate degrees under the category of ‘distance education.’ 

CACREP MFT Accreditation

The CACREP accreditation board is a more generalized accreditation body for counseling programs that covers undergraduate and graduate degrees in mental health. Programs accredited by this body ensure continued professional development to keep up with the changes within the field of mental health, along with ensuring that accredited institutions follow guidelines by the American Counseling Association (ACA) to produce competent mental health clinicians for the field. 

University Regional Accreditations

Graduate program accreditations encase the regional requirements put forth by state licensing boards to which graduates would typically seek licensure. For example, graduates from Texas A&M University, a CACREP accredited institution, would have met all the requirements set by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC), the licensing board of Texas. Programs are required to provide information on their accreditation on the program website, and this is indicative of the quality of education you would receive, should you decide to pursue that program.

A List of Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy Programs

The following list includes all Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy programs in the United States. The table can be sorted by state, accreditation, GRE requirement, and other attributes so applicants can find the right program for them.
NameCityStateDegree LevelAccreditationGRE Required?Full Program NameURL
University of Winnipeg (MMFT)WinnipegAKMastersCOAMFTENoMarriage & Family Therapy ProgramLearn More
University of Alabama BirminghamBirminghamALM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of MontevalloMontevalloALM.Ed.CACREPNoM.Ed. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Auburn University (MS)AuburnALMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Science in MFTLearn More
The University of AlabamaTuscaloosaALMastersCOAMFTENoMasters in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Arizona State UniversityTempe,AZMastersCOAMFTENoMarriage and Family Therapy, MASLearn More
Northcentral UniversityScottsdaleAZMastersCOAMFTENoMASTER OF ARTS DEGREE IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPYLearn More
Alliant International University - IrvineIrvineCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marital and Family TherapyLearn More
Alliant International University - Los Angeles (MA)AlhambraCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marital and Family TherapyLearn More
Alliant International University - Sacramento (MA)SacramentoCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marital and Family TherapyLearn More
Alliant International University - San DiegoSan DiegoCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marital and Family TherapyLearn More
Antioch UniversityLos AngelesCAMastersHLCNoMA in Clinical PsychologyLearn More
Antioch UniversitySanta BarbaraCAMastersHLCNoMA in Clinical PsychologyLearn More
Bethel Seminary (MA)San DiegoCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Biola UniversityLa MiradaCAMastersWSCUCNoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Cal State PolytechnicSan Luis ObispoCAMastersWSCUCNoMaster of Science (M.S.) in Psychology with Preparation for MFTLearn More
California Lutheran UniversityThousand OaksCAMastersWASCNoMS in Counseling Psychology (MFT)Learn More
California Southern UniversityCosta MesaCAMastersHLCNoMaster of Arts (MA) in Psychology, with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, BakersfieldBakersfieldCAMastersCACREPNoMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, ChicoChicoCAMastersCACREPNoMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, Dominguez HillsDominguez HillsCAMastersCACREPYesMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, East BayEast BayCAMastersCACREPYesMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, FresnoFresnoCAMastersCACREPYesMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, FullertonFullertonCAMastersCACREPNoMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, Long BeachLong BeachCAMastersCACREPNoMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, Los AngelesLos AngelesCAMastersCACREPNoMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, Northridge NorthridgeCAMastersCOAMFTEYesMaster of Science in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
California State University, SacramentoSacramentoCAMastersCACREPNoMaster of Science (M.S.) in Counseling: Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Campbellsville UniversityChatsworthCAMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.A. Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Chapman UniversityOrangeCAMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Chicago School of Professional PsychologyLos AngelesCAMastersWSCUCNoMaster of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology: Marital and Family Therapy SpecializationLearn More
Fresno Pacific UniversityFresnoCAMastersAssociation of Theological SchoolsYesMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Hope International University (MA)FullertonCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Loma Linda UniversityLoma LindaCAMastersCOAMFTENoMS in Marital and Family TherapyLearn More
Northcentral UniversitySan DiegoCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Pacific Oaks CollegeSan JoseCAMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster’s in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Pacific Oaks CollegePasadenaCAMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: African American Family Studies SpecializationLearn More
Pacific Oaks CollegePasadenaCAMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: Latinx Family Studies SpecializationLearn More
Pacific Oaks CollegePasadenaCAMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: LGBTQIA+ Studies SpecializationLearn More
Pacific Oaks CollegeSan JoseCAMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: Trauma Studies SpecializationLearn More
Palo Alto UniversityPalo AltoCAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Pepperdine UniversityMalibuCAMastersWSCUCYesM.A. in Clinical Psychology with Emphasis in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
San Diego State UniversitySan DiegoCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Touro University WorldwideLos AlamitosCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of San DiegoSan DiegoCAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAMastersCOAMFTEN/AMarriage & Family Therapy, MALearn More
University of the WestRosemeadCAMastersCOAMFTEYesMarriage & Family Therapy, MALearn More
Adams State UniversityAlamosaCOM.ACACREPNoMaster of Arts in Clinical Mental Health CounselingLearn More
Colorado Christian UniversityColoradoCOMastersCACREPNoOnline Master's in Counseling with a Focus on Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
University of Colorado at DenverDenverCOM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Northern Colorado, College of Education and Behavioral SciencesGreeleyCOM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Regis UniversityThorntonCOMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of Colorado DenverDenverCOMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Colorado State UniversityFort CollinsCOMastersCOAMFTENoMS in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of Colorado DenverColoradoCOMastersCOAMFTEYesMA, Couple, Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Regis UniversityColoradoCOMastersCOAMFTE & CACREPYesM.A. Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Southern Connecticut State UniversityNew HavenCTMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of Saint JosephWest HartfordCTMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Central Connecticut State UniversityNew BritainCTMastersCOAMFTENoMS in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Fairfield UniversityFairfieldCTMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
University of Central FloridaOrlandoFLM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Barry UniversityMiami ShoresFLM.SCACREPNoM.S in Marital, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Stetson UniversityDeLandFLM.S.CACREPNoM.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of FloridaGainesvilleFLM.S./Ed.S.CACREPNoM.S./Ed.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Nova Southeastern UniversityFort LauderdaleFLMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Valdosta State University (MS)ValdostaGAMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Mercer University - Atlanta (MFT)AtlantaGAMastersCOAMFTEYesMaster of Family TherapyLearn More
Mercer University - Macon (MFT)MaconGAMastersCOAMFTEYesMaster of Family Therapy (MFT)Learn More
Toccoa Falls CollegeToccoa FallsGAMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
The University of HawaiHonoluluHIMastersWASCN/AMarriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Iowa College of EducationIowaIAMastersCOAMFTEN/ACouple and Family Therapy
Learn More
Mount Mercy University (MA)Cedar RapidsIAMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Idaho State UniversityPocatelloIDM. Coun.CACREPNoM. Coun. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Northwest Nazarene UniversityNampaIDM.S.CACREPNoM.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Governors State UniversityUniversity ParkILM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Northeastern Illinois UniversityChicagoILM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Illinois SpringfieldSpringfieldILM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Northern Illinois University (MS)DeKalbILMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Wheaton College Graduate School (MA)WheatonILMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Northwestern University, The Family Institute (MS) OnlineEvanstonILMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Adler UniversityChicagoILMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Clinical Mental Health CounselingLearn More
Indiana UniversityBloomingtonINMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster of Science in Education in Marriage, Couple, and Family CounselingLearn More
Christian Theological SeminaryIndianapolisINMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Indiana Wesleyan University - Indianapolis (MA)IndianapolisINMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Indiana Wesleyan University - Marion (MA)MarionINMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Purdue University NorthwestHammondINMastersCOAMFTENoM.S in Couple and Family TherapyLearn More
Indiana Wesleyan University - Online (MA)IndianapolisINMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
The University of KansasLawrenceKSMastersCOAMFTEN/AFAMILY COUNSELINGLearn More
MidAmerica Nazarene UniversityOlatheKSM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Friends University - Kansas City (MS)Overland ParkKSMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Science in Family TherapyLearn More
Friends University (MS)WichitaKSMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Science in Family TherapyLearn More
Kansas State University (MS)ManhattanKSMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Science in Family TherapyLearn More
Western Kentucky UniversityBowling GreenKYM.A.E.CACREPNoM.A.E. in in Education in Marriage, Couple, and Family CounselingLearn More
Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (MA)LouisvilleKYMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Campbellsville University (MMFT)LouisvilleKYMastersCOAMFTENoMarriage and family therapyLearn More
University of Louisville (MSSW)LouisvilleKYMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Science in Social WorkLearn More
University of Kentucky (MS)LexingtonKYMastersCOAMFTEYesM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Loyola University New OrleansNew OrleansLAM.S.CACREPNoM.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Southeastern Louisiana UniversityHammondLAM.S.CACREPNoM.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Holy CrossNew OrleansLAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Louisiana at Monroe (MA)MonroeLAMastersCOAMFTEYesM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Springfield CollegeSpringfieldMAMastersCOAMFTEN/AMarriage and Family TherapyLearn More
William James CollegeNewton, MAMastersCOAMFTEN/ACouples and Family TherapyLearn More
Cambridge College Boston,MAMastersCOAMFTEN/AMarriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of MarylandCollege ParkMDMastersCOAMFTEN/ACouple and Family Therapy (FCFT)
Learn More
University of Maryland (MS)College ParkMDMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing, MIMastersCOAMFTEN/AMarriage and Family Therapy - Master of ArtsLearn More
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazooMIM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, couple and family counseling Learn More
St. Cloud State UniversitySt. Cloud,MNMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster of Science in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Bethel UniversitySt. Paul,MNMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.A. in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of St. ThomasMinneapolisMNMastersCOAMFTEN/AFamily Psychology Concentration (LMFT)Learn More
Walden UniversityMinneapolisMNM.S.CACREPNoMS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling specializationLearn More
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota (MA)MinneapolisMNMastersCOAMFTENoM.A in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
University of Central MissouriWarrensburgMOMastersCOAMFTEN/AMarriage & Family Therapy Opt. MSLearn More
University of MissouriColumbia,MOMastersCOAMFTEN/AMarriage and Family TherapistsLearn More
Saint Louis University (MA)Saint LouisMOMastersCOAMFTEYesMedical Family Therapy ProgramLearn More
Mississippi CollegeClintonMSM.S.CACREPNoM.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Southern Mississippi (MS)HattiesburgMSMastersCOAMFTEYesM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Montana State UniversityBozemanMTM.S.CACREPNoM.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
UNC GreensboroStreet GreensboroNCMastersCOAMFTEN/ACounseling, M.S., concentration in Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
North Carolina A & T State UniversityGREENSBORONCMastersCOAMFTENoMARRIAGE & FAMILY COUNSELING CERTIFICATELearn More
Appalachian State University (MA)BooneNCMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
East Carolina University (MS)GreenvilleNCMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Pfeiffer University (MA)CharlotteNCMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Pfeiffer University, Raleigh-Durham (MA)MorrisvilleNCMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
University of Nebraska Lincoln (MS)LincolnNEMastersCOAMFTEYesM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
PLYMOUTH STATE UNIVERSITY
Plymouth,NHMastersCOAMFTEN/AMARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPYLearn More
Antioch University New England (MA)KeeneNHMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
University of New Hampshire (MS)DurhamNHMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Kean UniversityUnionNJMastersCACREPN/AMarriage and Family Therapy (M.A.)Learn More
Seton Hall UniversitySouth OrangeNJMastersCOAMFTEYesMarriage and Family Therapy (M.A.)Learn More
New Mexico State UniversityLas CrucesNMMastersCOAMFTEN/AMasters of Science (MS) program in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)Learn More
University of Nevada, RenoRenoNVM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (MS)Las VegasNVMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Mercy CollegeManhattanNYMastersCOAMFTEN/AMARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY Master of ScienceLearn More
Long Island UniversityBrooklynNYMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy
Learn More
Manhatan CollegeRiverdaleNYMastersCOAMFTEN/AMARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY - M.S.Learn More
Nyack College (MA)New YorkNYMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Iona College (MS)New RochelleNYMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
University of Rochester (MS)RochesterNYMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Hofstra UniversityHempsteadNYMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)Learn More
Syracuse University (MA)SyracuseNYMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Falk CollegeSyracuseNYMastersCOAMFTEYesMarriage & Family Therapy M.A.Learn More
?The Ohio State UniversityColumbus,OHMastersCOAMFTEN/ACouple and Family TherapyLearn More
University of Akron (MA)AkronOHMastersCOAMFTENoMaster's in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Oklahoma State University (MS)StillwaterOKMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
University of Central OklahomaNormanOKMastersCOAMFTENoMasters in Science Family and child studiesLearn More
Mid-America Christian UniversityOklahoma CityOKMastersNCANoMaster’s in Family Therapy to Strengthen Couples and FamiliesLearn More
Oklahoma State UniversityStillwaterOKMastersCOAMFTEYesMaster of Science in Human Development and Family ScienceLearn More
Oklahoma Baptist UniversityShawneeOKMastersNCAYesMasters in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of OregonEugeneORMastersCOAMFTEN/ACouples and Family Therapy (CFT)Learn More
George Fox UniversityPortlandORM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Portland State UniversityPortlandORM.A./M.S.CACREPNoM.A./M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Oregon (MS)EugeneORMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Lewis and Clark College (MCFT)PortlandORMastersCOAMFTENoMarriage, Couple & Family TherapyLearn More
Oregon Institute of TechnologyKlamath FallsORMastersCOAMFTENoMaster's in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Geneva CollegeBeaver FallsPAMastersCACREPN/AMaster's in counseling programLearn More
Kairos UniversitySioux FallsPAMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster of Arts in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Kutztown UniversityKutztownPAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Duquesne UniversityPittsburghPAM.S.Ed.CACREPNoM.S.Ed. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Geneva CollegeBeaver FallsPAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Messiah University (previously Messiah College)MechanicsburgPAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Evangelical Theological Seminary (MA)MyerstownPAMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
LaSalle University (MA)PhiladelphiaPAMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Drexel University (MFT)PhiladelphiaPAMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Family Therapy (MFT)Learn More
Thomas Jefferson University (MMFT)PhiladelphiaPAMastersCOAMFTEYesMaster of Family Therapy (MFT)Learn More
drexel universityPhiladelphiaPAMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Family TherapyLearn More
University of Rhode Island (MS)KingstonRIMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Human Development and Family ScienceLearn More
The University of Rhode IslandKingstonRIMastersCOAMFTEN/ACouple and Family TherapyLearn More
University of South CarolinaWinston-SalemSCMastersCACREPNoCounselor Education, Ed.S. (Marriage, Couples & Family Counseling)Learn More
Converse University - University Center of GreenvilleGreenvilleSCMastersCOAMFTENoM.A. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Converse University (MMFT)SpartanburgSCMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Converse UniversitySpartanburgSCMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT)Learn More
Converse UniversitySpartanburgSCMastersCOAMFTEN/AConverse’s Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT)Learn More
University of South CarolinaWinston-SalemSCMastersCACREPNoCounselor Education, Ph.D.Learn More
South Dakota State UniversityBrookings,SDMastersCOAMFTEN/AMarriage and Family Counseling (M.S.)Learn More
KAIROS UNIVERSITYSioux Falls,SDMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster of Arts in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
The University of MemphisMemphis, TNMastersCACREPN/AMarriage, Couple, and Family CounselingLearn More
The University of TennesseeKnoxville, TNMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster in Family Therapy (M.F.T.) or Master in Marriage and Family Therapy (M.M.F.T.Learn More
Belmont UniversityNashvilleTNM.A.CACREPNoM.A in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Lee University (MS)ClevelandTNMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Trevecca Nazarene UniversityNashvilleTNM.M.F.C./T.CACREPYesM.M.F.C./T. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Lipscomb University (MMFT)NashvilleTNMastersCOAMFTEYesMaster of Family TherapyLearn More
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos, TXMastersCACREPN/AProfessional Counseling (Marriage and Family Counseling Concentration Non-thesis Option)Learn More
ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITYSan Antonio, TXMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster of Arts in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITYSan Antonio, TXMastersCOAMFTEN/ADoctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy Program.Learn More
Houston Baptist UniversityHouston, TXMastersCOAMFTEN/AThe Master of Arts in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
A&M UniversityKilleen, TXMastersCOAMFTEN/AThe Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) master’s programLearn More
University of HoustonHouston,TXMastersCOAMFTEN/AThe Master of Arts in Family TherapyLearn More
St. Edward's UniversityAustinTXM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Texas State UniversitySan MarcosTXM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Mary Hardin-BaylorBeltonTXM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Texas A&M University - Corpus ChristiCorpus ChristiTXM.S.CACREPNoM.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Sam Houston State UniversityHuntsvilleTXM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Texas Tech University (MS)LubbockTXMastersCOAMFTENoCouple, Marriage, and Family TherapyLearn More
Our Lady of the Lake University - Houston (MS)HoustonTXMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Our Lady of The Lake University - Rio Grande ValleyLa FeriaTXMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Our Lady of the Lake University - San Antonio (MS)San AntonioTXMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Texas Wesleyan University (MS)Fort WorthTXMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Texas Woman's University (MS)DentonTXMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. in Marriage & Family TherapyLearn More
Abilene Christian University (MMFT)AbileneTXMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Family TherapyLearn More
Abilene Christian University Online (MMFT)DallasTXMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Family TherapyLearn More
Southern Methodist UniversityDallasTXM.S.CACREPYesM.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
University of Houston Clear Lake (MA)HoustonTXMastersCOAMFTEYesM.A in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)Learn More
Utah State University (MS)LoganUTMastersCOAMFTENoM.S in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Utah Valley State UniversityOremUTMastersSeeking COAMFTE AccreditationNoMaster of Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Brigham Young University (MS)ProvoUTMastersCOAMFTEYesM.S in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Utah Tech UniversitySt. GeorgeUTMastersSeeking COAMFTE AccreditationYesMasters of Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Regent UniversityVirginia BeachVAMastersCACREPN/AM.A. in Marriage, Couple & Family CounselingLearn More
Family Therapy Center of Virginia TechBlacksburg,VAMastersCOAMFTEN/Amarriage and family therapy doctoral programLearn More
Liberty University, Counselor Education & Family StudiesLynchburgVAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
College of William and MaryWilliamsburgVAM.Ed.CACREPNoM.Ed. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Regent UniversityVirginia BeachVAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Virginia TechBlacksburgVAMastersCOAMFTENoVirginia Tech’s marriage and family therapy doctoral programLearn More
lu online liberty university addressLynchburgVAMastersSACSCOCYesMA in Family and Marriage Therapy – Online MFT DegreeLearn More
Whitworth UniversitySpokane, WAMastersCOAMFTEN/AMarriage & Family Therapy ProgramLearn More
Pacific Lutheran UniversityTacomaWAMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.A. Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WASeattleWAMastersCOAMFTEN/AM.S. Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
City University of SeattleSeattleWAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Gonzaga UniversitySpokaneWAM.A.CACREPNoM.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family CounselingLearn More
Seattle University (MA)SeattleWAMastersCOAMFTENoM.A in Couples and Family TheraphyLearn More
Antioch University Seattle (MA)SeattleWAMastersCOAMFTENoMA in Couple and Family TherapyLearn More
Pacific Lutheran University (MA)TacomaWAMastersCOAMFTENoMaster of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Learn More
Seattle Pacific University (MS)SeattleWAMastersCOAMFTEYesMaster of Science in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
EDGEWOOD COLLEGEMadison, WIMastersCOAMFTEN/AMaster of Science in Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of Wisconsin Superior Superior, WIMastersCOAMFTEN/AMSE in Counseling Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More
University of Wisconsin Stout (MS)MenomonieWIMastersCOAMFTENoM.S. Marriage and Family TherapyLearn More

What Will You Learn in a Masters in MFT Program?

Length of Programs

Most MFT master’s programs include the completion of requirements that meet state requirements for licensure upon graduation. The programs typically consist of 60 credit hours which include required course work (with some electives to choose from), clinical practicum training, and the options of a thesis or applied paper. The coursework within the program covers theoretical and conceptual foundations to assess issues with individuals and within the family system, along with training to make diagnoses based on the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), along with multi-faceted approaches to the treatment of issues for individuals and families. Clinical practicum training typically includes a placement off-campus and is similar to a residency program where you would complete an internship with supervised experience until you meet the required hours set by your program. The practicum training is designed to give you real-life experience in applying theoretical knowledge to the daily work of a clinical setting. 

Standard Curriculum

Most programs structure course offerings based on licensing requirements in the state where the program is located. Since AAMFT assigns accreditation boards, general competencies in specific courses are required and these are common to most MFT programs. The following is an outline of those courses:

Theoretical foundations of marriage and family therapy – The foundations of family systems dynamics, common issues, and treatment conceptualizations within marriage and family therapy.

Human development, family studies, multicultural and gender issues – The stages of human development, theories of development and maladaptive behaviors, interrelationships of individuals with family systems and society. Multicultural competence and theory. Gender issues relating to sexual identity, gender identity, and development. The influences of mentioned topics on the identity development of the individual. 

MFT assessment and treatment – Treatment modalities, techniques, and approaches used in therapy with individuals, families, couples, and children. Topics covered include (but are not limited to) relationship therapy, crisis intervention, sex therapy, sex and gender issues, interfaith couples, parental issues, multi-cultural issues, and therapy for the elderly. 

Professional ethics – Professional guidelines and ethical roles pertaining to professional mental health providers. Ethical obligations, limitations, and scope of practice. Professional affiliations and guidelines to enhancing personal and career development. Common ethical issues and guidelines in clinical practice over general settings and information for appropriate reporting. 

Professional research – Guidelines and processes of professional academic research. Tenets of evidence-based research and how to conduct ethical experimentation. Research evaluation and guidelines of responsible consumption of literature. The use of clinical research in treatment practice and understanding of data within the literature. A general understanding and application of statistical knowledge and an ability to gather and measure outcomes. 

Treatment of addictions and management of crisis – Theoretical conceptualizations of the process of addiction and its influence on marriage and family systems. 

Psychopathology  – Theoretical and clinical competence in the assessment and diagnosis of pathology using psycho-diagnostic categories and criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Assessment and screening based on evidence-based tools and practices.  

Supervised clinical practicum/internship  – Completing supervised clinical experience.

Specializations and Concentrations Within MFT Programs

As a master’s level clinician, gaining a specialization in MFT sets you apart as a qualified professional to work with individuals, couples, and families. You have the options and opportunities to further specialize your scope of practice to specific demographic groups such as adolescents, couples, families, geriatric populations, military therapy, and LGBTQ+ family therapy. 

You also have the option of specializing in specific psychological focuses such as therapy in trauma, divorce counseling, bereavement, addictions, and general MFT. The variety of specializations and demographics to choose from makes a career in MFT versatile in the career environment that best fits you.

What Are The Requirements to Enroll in an MFT Master’s Program?

Bachelor’s Degree and Prior Education – A degree from an accredited institution is re typically a requirement but not specific to that degree being in mental health. While you can hold a Bachelor’s degree in another field, you must have at least 12 semester hours of psychology courses along with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) ranging from 2.5 to 3.5, depending on the program you apply for. 

Application –  Applications for MFT programs are almost always submitted online. You would have to enter background information including prior education, experience, a personal statement detailing your motivations for attending and completing the graduate degree, and pay the application fees. Most programs require three letters of reference, which is an opportunity to back your personal statement about why you would be a good fit for the program. You may also be asked to list specific faculty you would like to gain mentorship from, especially if you decide to choose a thesis track. This will be based on your long-term research and career interests.

Transcripts – Programs require official transcripts to be sent directly from your previous educational institution(s). More universities accept electronic formats in recent years. 

Personal Statement (program dependent) – A personal statement may be required depending on the program. This typically is a two-page essay outlining your intentions of pursuing an MFT degree in that institution, background information that would make you a good fit, and an opportunity for you to highlight specific faculty under which you would like mentorship, along with reasons for your decision. Essentially, the personal statement is a personalized opportunity to convince the admissions committee that you would be a good fit for the program. 

GRE – The requirement of a GRE score while required by some institutions, has been waived by others due to the pandemic. While some programs have waived the GRE requirements (if you have other qualifications) the ones that do, typically look for a GRE score around 315 (verbal ~ 160, quantitative ~ 155). Some programs may require the completion of GRE subject tests. Scores would be submitted with the application directly by the testing center, which you would be able to do upon completion of the test. 

What is the Career Outlook for Marriage and Family Therapists?

The field of mental health is constantly growing in its versatility within specializations and the improvement in awareness amongst the general public. Therapists within the MFT specialization have seen steady growth over the last few years.

There has been a push for awareness and accessibility of mental health which has led to a rise in the demand for competent mental health providers. Marriage and family therapy in particular is a growing area of specialty.  According to the Department of Labor Statistics, there is a projected growth of 16% in the next decade. This projected growth is much higher than the average of other occupations in the United States. As of 2021, the median annual pay for MFTs nationally is $49,880, with hourly rates at an average of $24.00, with salaries ranging from $37,050 – $96,520.

Where can MFTs Practice?

Marriage and Family Therapy although a specialized area has wide demographic and clinical versatility that offers a variety of clinical settings in which MFTs can practice. Within the working world, employers may require prior experience similar to that of the potential job, and some employers such as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs may require that employees have graduated from COAMFTE-accredited institutions. 

MFTs can practice in private practices, hospitals, rehabilitation centers and in-patient residential settings, outpatient clinics, schools, non-profit organizations, and state hospitals. If you have more interest in pursuing a non-clinical route, you have the option of working in research centers, academia, or in training positions for other MFTs. With experience and exposure, MFTs often move towards building their own private practices where they can build their own business independently. Being an MFT offers many options beyond a traditional nine-to-five workday, and can cater to your work style and level of desired work autonomy.  

What does it mean to be an LMFT?

Licensing Process

A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist is a mental health provider who has graduated from an accredited MFT institution and accrued the necessary requirements to hold licensure by the state board to which they belong. The educational requirements are typically overarching across states but an overview of the standard curriculum is listed above. One of the main factors to consider is obtaining a degree with a COAMFTE or CACREP accreditation as it ensures your preparation for licensure upon graduation. As graduation approaches, candidates will begin preparing for the state or national licensing examination that is governed by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). Successful completion of this examination is a requirement to be approved for an LMFT-Associate (LMFT-A) license.

Clinical training is vital in being a competent MFT. Almost all programs (online or in-person) incorporate a clinical practicum or internship as a requirement to successfully graduate. This is typically 12 semester hours. Upon graduation and successful completion of the licensing examination, you would have a probationary LMFT-A license. Generally, LMFT-As need 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience working with clients, 1,500 of which must be direct services with patients. Requirements for the number of hours worked with couples and families specifically vary by state.

The AAMFT council is the national entity that governs state boards overseeing MFTs in their specific states. Information on state boards and requirements per state can be accessed here. State boards set the policies and regulations on the licensing renewal process, licensing requirements, state ethics code, information on board actions and restrictions, licensure limitations, and information on how to file grievances for therapists and clients. Information on programs that are accredited, and board-approved supervisors available in your area for licensing purposes and supervision hours, may be located via your state’s licensing board website,

What are the Benefits of an Online Master’s in MFT Program?

With a steady increase in awareness and a push for accessibility to services pertaining to mental health, there has been a steady increase in the demand for competent clinicians as well. There have also been an increase in the number of applicants for graduate programs in mental health, and marriage and family therapy programs. In the past few years, accessibility in education has made it easier for people to pursue professional degrees including specialized graduate degrees online while maintaining the standards and requirements of the awarding institution. 

An online education’s biggest advantage is the flexibility in time and pace of learning. While you may miss out on some one-on-one time with an instructor and peers, you would be able to set your own schedule which offers a healthy work-life balance, especially if you are pursuing a degree on top of working full-time. Also, depending on your learning style, you would be able to learn at your own pace while cutting out distractions and the time spent commuting back and forth to campus. Perhaps another deciding factor in pursuing a graduate degree is its associated cost. Online degrees may have lower tuition fees (depending on your chosen program) but you will eliminate all other associated costs of being a student. This would include any relocation costs, commuting costs, and campus utility fees, as you would be a distance learner. You would also have the advantage of attaining a degree from an institution across the nation, from the convenience of your home! 

Pursuing a degree in MFT will offer you an opportunity for a fulfilling career, where you would see your impact on people’s development and even your own personal development. The opportunities for professional development are vast, and the field is ever expanding. 

Resources

American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
https://www.aamft.org/

Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards
https://amftrb.org/

Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education
https://www.coamfte.org/

Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
https://www.cacrep.org/

GRE General Test
https://www.ets.org/gre

O*Net
https://www.onetonline.org/

Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
https://www.bhec.texas.gov/

United States Department of Labor Statistics
https://www.bls.gov/