Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in Delaware 2025

Delaware offers a unique pathway for aspiring Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs). While the state does not have in-state MFT degree programs, students can earn an accredited MFT degree through online and hybrid programs from out-of-state institutions that meet Delaware’s licensure requirements.

These programs provide flexibility for working professionals and those needing local clinical placements while ensuring students meet state-specific LMFT requirements. Delaware residents can complete coursework remotely and arrange clinical training at approved sites within the state.

The need for licensed therapists in Delaware is growing, especially in urban centers like Wilmington and underserved rural areas. MFTs are in demand for family counseling, addiction treatment, and couples therapy across private practice, hospitals, community mental health agencies, and telehealth services.

In this guide

MFT Programs in Delaware

Although Delaware lacks in-state MFT programs, students can choose from highly accredited online and hybrid programs that align with Delaware’s LMFT licensure standards.

Key Considerations for Delaware Students Seeking an MFT Degree:

Accreditation – Choose a COAMFTE-accredited program to ensure licensure eligibility.
Program Format – Consider fully online, hybrid, or low-residency options that allow local clinical training.
Clinical Training Support – Verify whether the program assists with arranging practicum/internship sites in Delaware or if students must find their own placements.
Licensure Alignment – Ensure the curriculum meets Delaware’s required coursework in family systems, ethics, and clinical therapy.

By selecting the right online or hybrid MFT program, Delaware students can gain a top-tier education while fulfilling local clinical experience requirements.

Delaware's Quickest MFT Programs

For students looking to complete their MFT degree faster, online programs offer accelerated tracks, self-paced coursework, and year-round enrollment.

Strategies to Complete an MFT Degree Faster:

Enroll Full-Time – Accelerated programs allow students to finish in as little as 18-24 months.
Select Programs with Streamlined Clinical Hours – Some schools integrate clinical placements earlier, reducing total completion time.
Leverage Transfer Credits – Students with prior coursework in psychology, counseling, or social work may reduce degree length.

Here are some of the fastest MFT programs available to Delaware students:

School	Program Length	Type
Thomas Jefferson University (via UD partnership)	2 years	Campus
Wilmington University	2 – 2.5 years	Hybrid
Messiah University	2.5 years	Campus/Hybrid

Program Highlights:

Thomas Jefferson University – Offers a fast-track MFT degree through its partnership with the University of Delaware.
Wilmington University – Provides a clinical counseling degree with a flexible hybrid format.
Messiah University – Offers an accelerated online MFT program with one-week on-campus intensives.

By enrolling in year-round programs and intensive coursework, students can complete their degrees faster and begin the licensure process sooner.

Delaware's Cheapest MFT Programs

Students looking for affordable MFT education can take advantage of public university programs in neighboring states, many of which offer in-state tuition discounts for regional students.

Ways to Save on MFT Tuition:

Apply for Out-of-State Reciprocity Agreements – Some programs provide regional tuition discounts for Delaware residents.
Seek Employer Tuition Assistance – Delaware employers in mental health or healthcare may offer tuition reimbursement for MFT programs.
Choose Hybrid or Part-Time Study – Spreading coursework over time can reduce semester tuition costs.

School	Estimated Tuition	Type
Wilmington University	$9,000 per year	Hybrid
Messiah University	$10,500 per year	Online/Hybrid
Thomas Jefferson University	$12,000 per year	Campus

Program Highlights:

Wilmington University – Offers one of the most affordable counseling programs in the state, with an MFT-adjacent pathway.
Messiah University – Provides a cost-effective, accredited online MFT program.
Thomas Jefferson University – Though slightly more expensive, it has a direct pathway for UD students into a recognized MFT program.

Delaware students can further reduce costs by seeking tuition assistance, applying for financial aid, and utilizing employer tuition reimbursement programs.

How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in Delaware

Becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Delaware requires specific education, supervised training, and passing national exams.

Steps to Become an LMFT in Delaware:

Earn a Master’s or Doctorate in MFT – Complete a COAMFTE-accredited program or an equivalent graduate degree in family systems therapy.
Complete 3,200 Supervised Clinical Hours – Delaware requires:
1,600 hours of direct client contact
100 hours of clinical supervision with a focus on couples and families
Pass the National MFT Exam – Administered by the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
Submit an Application for Licensure – Apply through the Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals.
Complete Continuing Education (CE) Requirements – LMFTs must renew their licenses every two years with 40 CE hours, including ethics training.

For official details, visit the Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals.

LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in Delaware

With expanding mental health programs, Delaware has a growing demand for LMFTs, particularly in family therapy, addiction counseling, and trauma intervention.

Delaware-Specific LMFT Data:

State Population: 1.052 million
Average LMFT Salary: $60,000 – $75,000 per year
Top 10% LMFT Salary: Over $85,000 per year

Where LMFTs Work in Delaware:

Private Practice & Group Therapy Clinics – Many LMFTs establish independent therapy businesses.
Community Mental Health Organizations – Serving low-income and underserved families.
School-Based Mental Health Services – Providing counseling in educational settings.
Teletherapy & Online Counseling – Growing demand for virtual therapy services in Delaware.

As mental health awareness increases, Delaware is investing in behavioral health initiatives, making it an ideal place for MFT professionals to establish careers.

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