Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in Oregon 2026
Oregon offers a strong selection of COAMFTE-accredited and regionally approved Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) programs, providing students with rigorous academic training, clinical experience, and pathways to licensure. With a growing demand for licensed therapists in both urban and rural areas, Oregon presents diverse career opportunities for LMFTs in private practice, hospitals, and school-based mental health programs.
In this guide
2026 Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Programs in Oregon
Oregon Institute of Technology
Klamath Falls, OR - Public 4-Year - oit.edu
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. (Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Integrated Behavioral Healthcare)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Oregon Tech's Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program offers a hybrid format combining online and campus instruction, with concentrations in Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, and Integrated Behavioral Healthcare. This program prepares graduates for clinical practice with specialized focus on rural mental health, multicultural competence, and trauma-informed care. The curriculum emphasizes ethical standards aligned with AAMFT and ACA codes, research application, and treatment of co-occurring disorders. Admissions require a bachelor's degree; no entrance exam is specified. Graduates are trained to work in diverse settings addressing family systems through integrated behavioral healthcare approaches.
- Master of Science degree
- Hybrid delivery format
- Medical Family Therapy concentration
- Substance Use Disorder Treatment concentration
- Integrated Behavioral Healthcare concentration
- Focus on rural mental health
- Multicultural competence training
- Trauma-informed care emphasis
- Ethical standards adherence
- Research application component
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. (Substance Use Disorder Treatment)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Oregon Tech's Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program with a Substance Use Disorder Treatment concentration prepares therapists with expertise in multicultural competence and rural mental health care. The hybrid curriculum covers human development, counseling skills, MFT theories, assessment, and cultural humility, with specialized training in substance use disorder treatment and Medical Family Therapy practices. Students develop trauma-informed clinical skills and learn ethical principles aligned with professional standards. Admissions require a bachelor's degree; no entrance exam is specified. Graduates are equipped to provide integrated behavioral healthcare with strong collaboration with local service organizations.
- Master of Science degree
- Marriage and Family Therapy program
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Medical Family Therapy practices
- Rural mental health care
- Multicultural competence training
- Trauma-informed therapists
- Cultural humility focus
- Integrated Behavioral Healthcare
- Ethical principles emphasis
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. (Integrated Behavioral Healthcare)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Oregon Tech's Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program with an Integrated Behavioral Healthcare concentration trains therapists in multicultural competence, rural mental health care, and substance use disorder treatment. The hybrid program focuses on preparing graduates for integrated behavioral healthcare practices through foundational knowledge in human development, counseling skills, MFT theories, assessment, and cultural humility. The curriculum includes trauma-informed training and ethical principles aligned with AAMFT and ACA standards. Admissions require a bachelor's degree; no entrance exam is specified. Graduates develop strong collaboration skills with local organizations to work in diverse mental health settings.
- Master of Science degree
- Marriage and Family Therapy program
- Multicultural competence training
- Rural mental health care focus
- Medical Family Therapy training
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Integrated Behavioral Healthcare practices
- Trauma-informed therapists training
- Cultural humility education
- AAMFT Code of Ethics alignment
University of Oregon
Eugene, OR - Public 4-Year - uoregon.edu
Master's - Couples and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Oregon's Couples and Family Therapy master's program offers a 90-credit Master of Science degree that prepares students for LMFT licensure. This COAMFTE-accredited hybrid program follows a cohort model with 22-24 students annually and requires 350 direct client contact hours. Clinical training occurs at the Center for Healthy Relationships and community externship sites, with small supervision groups enhancing learning. Admissions require a bachelor's degree in any discipline, and the program emphasizes an inclusive, noncompetitive environment. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program.
- Master of Science degree
- 90-credit program
- COAMFTE accredited
- Cohort model
- 22-24 students annually
- Clinical training required
- 350 client contact hours
- Center for Healthy Relationships
- Community externship sites
- Bachelor's degree required
Master's - Couples and Family Therapy (Spanish Language Specialization)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
This 90-credit Master of Science program at the University of Oregon features a Spanish Language Specialization within its Couples and Family Therapy curriculum. The COAMFTE-accredited hybrid format combines on-campus and online elements while preparing students for LMFT licensure. Students complete 350 direct client hours and 150 relational system hours through clinical training at the Center for Healthy Relationships and community externships. The program operates with a small cohort model and intensive supervision, requiring only a bachelor's degree for admission with no specific prerequisites. No entrance exam is needed for this master's program.
- Master of Science degree.
- 90-credit program.
- Nationally accredited by COAMFTE.
- Prepares for LMFT licensure.
- Spanish Language Specialization available.
- Small cohort model.
- Hybrid delivery format.
- Clinical training at CHR.
- Community externship placements.
- 350 direct client hours.
George Fox University
Newberg, OR - Private 4-year - georgefox.edu
Master's - Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
George Fox University's Master's in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling prepares students for dual licensure as LPCs and LMFTs through a CACREP-accredited hybrid program. This 64-credit curriculum requires 700 supervised clinical internship hours and integrates spiritual perspectives without exclusive Christian focus. The program offers flexible online and in-person formats at the Portland Center, with predictable schedules for working adults. No entrance exam is required for admission, which needs a bachelor's degree. The $52,864 tuition covers comprehensive training from a systemic perspective, including 280 direct client contact hours and 120 hours specifically with couples and families.
- 64 semester credit hours.
- Dual licensure option (LPC and LMFT).
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Online or in-person format.
- Cost per credit hour: $826.
- Total tuition cost: $52,864.
- Program length: 3 years.
- 700-hour supervised clinical internship.
- 20 hours of personal counseling required.
- Flexible schedules for working adults.
Lewis & Clark College
Portland, OR - Private 4-year - lclark.edu
Graduate Certificate - Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy (Addictions treatment)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis & Clark College's Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy offers a specialized concentration in addictions treatment, preparing students for licensure as marriage and family therapists. This 60-credit program emphasizes social justice, diversity, and strength-based approaches through a cohort learning model. The curriculum includes clinical internships and focuses on advanced therapeutic skills, with options for full-time (3 years) or part-time (4 years) completion starting in the fall. No entrance exam is required for admission. Graduates are equipped to provide effective therapy in diverse clinical settings with a particular focus on addiction treatment methodologies.
- 60 semester credit hours
- Full-time: 3 years
- Part-time: 4 years
- Fall semester start
- Cohort learning model
- Social justice perspective
- Clinical internship included
- Multiple therapy concentrations
- Prepares for LMFT licensure
- Strength-based therapeutic approach
Portland State University
Portland, OR - Public 4-Year - pdx.edu
Master's - Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Portland State University's Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling program is a three-year, 90-credit hybrid master's degree that prepares graduates for Oregon licensure as LPCs or LMFTs. Operating on a cohort model with primarily evening on-campus classes and daytime clinical requirements, the CACREP-accredited curriculum blends foundational coursework in counseling theories, ethics, and diagnosis with specialized training and hands-on practicum experience. Students complete 20-30 hour weekly internships with community partners in their final year. Estimated resident cost is $56,350 with financial aid available. Admissions require meeting graduate standards; no specific entrance exam is mentioned as required.
- Three-year program duration.
- 90 total credits required.
- Estimated resident cost $56,350.
- In-person classes on campus.
- Primarily evening class schedule.
- Daytime clinical training required.
- Cohort model for peer support.
- Includes coursework and clinical practice.
- Prepares for LPC and LMFT licensure.
- Internships 20-30 hours per week.
Western Seminary
Portland, OR - Private 4-year - westernseminary.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Seminary's Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy is a 73-credit campus program integrating Christian worldview with clinical training. It prepares students for both MFT and LPCC licensure, requiring a 3.0 GPA bachelor's degree and counseling readiness exams. The curriculum includes coursework in family systems, psychopathology, and ethics, plus three semesters of practicum totaling 325 clinical hours with 225 direct client contact. Classes are scheduled on weeknights and Saturdays, with some distance education options available for flexibility.
- Master of Arts degree.
- 73 credit hours required.
- Christian worldview integration.
- Prepares for MFT licensure.
- Prepares for LPCC licensure.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- Weeknight and Saturday classes.
- Distance education options available.
- Three semesters of practicum.
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
This Master of Arts in Counseling program at Western Seminary focuses specifically on marriage, couple, and family counseling within a Christian framework. The 71-credit campus program requires a 3.0 GPA bachelor's degree, written responses, references, and an interview for admission. Students complete at least 700 clinical hours including 280 direct client contact through practicum and internships. The curriculum combines counseling courses with biblical studies and theology, with classes offered on weeknights and Saturdays plus some online options. The program includes the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Exam.
- 71 credits required.
- Master of Arts degree.
- Focus on marriage, couple, and family counseling.
- Christian worldview integration.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- Accredited bachelor's degree needed.
- Written responses and interview required.
- 700 total clinical hours.
- 280 direct client contact hours.
- Practicum and internships included.
MFT Programs Available in Oregon
Oregon has multiple COAMFTE-accredited and regionally approved MFT programs, ensuring students receive high-quality education and state-approved clinical training.
Top Accredited MFT Programs in Oregon
Lewis & Clark College – MA in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy
- COAMFTE-accredited program offering comprehensive coursework in systemic therapy, trauma-informed care, and ethical clinical practice.
- Provides internship placements in mental health clinics, private practices, and community organizations to prepare students for state licensure.
Pacific University – Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
- COAMFTE-accredited program focused on multicultural therapy, couples counseling, and mental health disorders.
- Provides clinical practicum opportunities in diverse mental health settings, including school-based therapy programs.
Oregon’s Quickest MFT Programs
- Lewis & Clark College’s MFT program can be completed in two years, with structured clinical training and coursework integration.
- George Fox University’s MFT program follows a 2.5-year curriculum, allowing students to gain real-world clinical experience while completing their degree.
- Online COAMFTE-accredited programs from neighboring states allow Oregon students to accelerate coursework while completing required supervised hours locally.
- Students with prior psychology or counseling coursework may transfer credits, reducing their total program length.
For students seeking a fast-track to licensure, enrolling in full-time programs with early clinical placements ensures an efficient path to professional practice. Learn more about other fast MFT programs available to you.
Oregon’s Cheapest MFT Programs
- Lewis & Clark College offers competitive tuition rates for Oregon residents, making it one of the most cost-effective COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs in the state.
- George Fox University and Pacific University provide financial aid, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs, reducing student loan debt.
- Loan forgiveness programs for LMFTs working in rural and high-need areas help offset tuition costs, making MFT education more accessible.
- Online MFT programs with lower tuition rates provide an alternative for students looking for affordable and flexible degree options.
Students prioritizing affordability should explore scholarships, assistantships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs to reduce out-of-pocket education costs. If you are looking for the cheapest MFT programs available, check out our full guide on getting an MFT degree for cheap.
How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in Oregon
1. Earn a Master’s or Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Complete a COAMFTE-accredited or regionally accredited MFT program that meets Oregon’s licensure requirements.
- Ensure coursework covers family therapy models, mental health assessment, ethical standards, and clinical interventions.
2. Complete 2,000 Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience
- Fulfill post-graduate clinical hours, with 1,000 hours of direct client contact under the supervision of a licensed MFT.
- Gain experience in approved therapy settings, including private practice, school-based counseling, and behavioral health clinics.
3. Pass the National MFT Examination
- Successfully take and pass the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) National MFT Exam.
- Demonstrate competency in relationship counseling, ethics, and evidence-based treatment techniques.
4. Apply for Licensure Through the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists
- Submit official transcripts, proof of supervised hours, and exam scores for licensure approval.
- Complete any state-specific licensing requirements, including background checks and ethics training.
5. Maintain Licensure with Continuing Education
- Complete 40 continuing education (CE) hours every renewal cycle, including coursework in professional ethics, trauma-informed care, and advanced clinical training.
- Attend workshops, conferences, and online training programs to stay updated on best practices in family therapy.
Following these steps ensures a smooth transition from student to licensed LMFT, qualifying professionals to work in private practice, behavioral health organizations, and teletherapy programs.
LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in Oregon
Oregon offers strong career opportunities for LMFTs, with growing demand in private practice, hospitals, and school-based mental health services. The average salary for LMFTs in Oregon is $66,800 per year, with experienced professionals earning over $100,000 annually.
Where LMFTs Work in Oregon
- Private practices provide higher salaries and flexible schedules, making them a popular career path.
- Hospitals and behavioral health organizations hire LMFTs for integrated care teams and crisis intervention programs.
- School-based therapy programs allow LMFTs to work with children, adolescents, and families in educational settings.
- Teletherapy expansion in Oregon has increased job opportunities for LMFTs providing remote counseling services.
With competitive salaries, high demand for licensed therapists, and flexible work settings, Oregon remains a top destination for LMFT professionals.
Oregon offers a variety of accredited MFT programs, structured licensure pathways, and expanding career opportunities for licensed therapists. With affordable tuition rates, flexible program options, and financial incentives for therapists working in underserved areas, Oregon remains a strong location for aspiring LMFTs.
For students seeking a high-quality, career-focused, and financially viable MFT education, Oregon’s programs provide the clinical training, licensure preparation, and hands-on experience necessary to succeed in private practice, behavioral health organizations, and school-based mental health services. Whether working in urban therapy centers or rural mental health programs, LMFTs in Oregon play a critical role in strengthening family relationships and improving mental health care across the state.
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