Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
Pennsylvania is an excellent state for aspiring Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs), offering a strong mental health workforce and a variety of accredited educational options. With a high demand for licensed MFTs, especially in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and rural communities with limited mental health resources, the state provides numerous career opportunities. Several universities in Pennsylvania offer COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs, ensuring that students meet both state and national licensure requirements. These programs emphasize hands-on clinical training, requiring students to complete supervised clinical hours in hospitals, private practices, nonprofit counseling centers, and community mental health clinics. Additionally, students have the flexibility to choose from on-campus, hybrid, and online learning formats, making it easier for both full-time students and working professionals to pursue their MFT degrees.
In this guide
2025 Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Programs in Pennsylvania
Looking for the best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) programs in Pennsylvania? marriagefamilytherapist.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student support. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these programs stand out. We've done the research so you can make an informed choice. Check out our full rankings and see which program matches your goals. https://marriagefamilytherapist.org/rankings-methodology/
Eastern University
Saint Davids, PA - Private 4-year - eastern.edu
Master's - MA in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern University's online MA in Marriage and Family Therapy is a 60-credit program designed for those aspiring to become mental health professionals. It offers a blend of systemic thinking and faith-integrated approaches for holistic healing. The program is flexible, with full-time and part-time options, and emphasizes cultural humility, professional practice, and transformative therapeutic techniques. Tuition is affordable at $450 per credit, with financial aid opportunities available.
- 100% Online Program
- 60 credits total
- 2 years full-time
- $450 per credit tuition
- August start term
- Part-time options available
- Faith-integrated curriculum
- Clinical professional instructors
- Cultural humility emphasis
- Systemic therapy approach
Doctorate - Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) at Eastern University is a 60-credit doctoral program that combines advanced marriage and family systems theory with theological insights. Aimed at church leaders and mental health professionals, it fosters advanced leadership skills and therapeutic expertise through an interdisciplinary approach. The program includes a practicum and doctoral project, preparing graduates for professional licensure.
- 60-credit doctoral program
- Integrates theology and clinical practice
- Advances leadership and therapy skills
- Focuses on family systems theory
- Practicum and doctoral project included
- Courses explore diverse therapy topics
- Prepares for professional licensure
Doctorate - PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern University's online PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy is a 60-credit doctoral program that prepares students for careers in counseling, research, and leadership. It integrates psychological and theological perspectives for a comprehensive approach to mental health. The program is research-focused, with a dissertation requirement, and offers flexible completion in 4-6 years. Tuition is $450 per credit, totaling $28,800, with a start term in August annually.
- 100% Online Program
- 60 Credit Doctoral Degree
- 4-6 Years Completion Time
- $450 per Credit Tuition
- Christian Psychology Integration
- Research-Focused Dissertation
- Leadership Career Preparation
- Starts in August Annually
- Pastoral and Clinical Focus
- Advanced Counseling Skills Training
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu
Master's - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: Trauma and Addiction - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Drexel University's Master of Family Therapy with a concentration in Trauma and Addiction is a 90-credit, COAMFTE-accredited hybrid program. It uniquely prepares students for addressing the complexities of trauma and addiction within family systems. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical practicum, requiring a minimum of 500 direct client hours, including telehealth practice. Graduates emerge ready for Pennsylvania MFT licensure, equipped with diverse therapy approaches and specialized training for working with populations affected by trauma and addiction.
- 90-credit master's degree
- COAMFTE accredited program
- Full-time campus program
- Some online course options
- Trauma and addiction focus
- Clinical practicum required
- Minimum 500 direct client hours
- Telehealth practice training
- Pennsylvania MFT licensure eligible
- Diverse therapy approach training
Master's - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: LGBT and Specific Populations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Specializing in LGBT and Specific Populations, Drexel University's Master of Family Therapy is a 90-credit, COAMFTE-accredited hybrid program. It offers in-depth training in addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBT individuals and other specific populations within the context of family therapy. The program emphasizes interprofessional healthcare training and utilizes an on-campus clinical simulation center for practical experience. With a requirement of 500 clinical hours, graduates are well-prepared for licensure and careers in diverse settings, including healthcare, schools, and private practice.
- 90-credit Master's degree
- COAMFTE-accredited program
- Full-time campus and online courses
- Trauma and addiction focus
- Minimum 500 clinical hours required
- Pennsylvania MFT licensure eligible
- Specialized training with LGBT populations
- Interprofessional healthcare training
- Multiple therapy approach models
- On-campus clinical simulation center
Lancaster Bible College
Lancaster, PA - Private 4-year - lbc.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lancaster Bible College offers a Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling, designed for those seeking to blend faith with professional counseling practice. This hybrid program requires 60 credits, combining online coursework with in-person sessions in Lancaster. It stands out for its integration of biblical principles with modern therapeutic techniques, preparing graduates for licensure and diverse professional settings. The curriculum includes over 200 clinical practicum hours, a candidacy interview, and training in MMPI-2 personality assessment, ensuring a well-rounded education. Graduates are prepared to address complex family dynamics with compassion and expertise.
- 60-credit Master of Arts program
- Hybrid learning in Lancaster
- Biblical integration approach
- Licensure preparation focus
- Three-tier course structure
- 200+ clinical practicum hours
- MMPI-2 personality assessment
- Candidacy interview process
- Multiple field placement options
Messiah University
Mechanicsburg, PA - Private 4-year - messiah.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Messiah University's Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling Master's program provides a transformative educational journey for aspiring counseling professionals. Through a CACREP-accredited curriculum, students gain comprehensive training in therapeutic techniques, relationship dynamics, and systemic interventions. The hybrid program strategically balances online flexibility with practical field experiences, enabling working professionals to advance their careers. Spanning 60 credits and completable in two years, the program emphasizes leadership development and client-centered approaches. With competitive per-credit pricing and frequent course start dates, students receive a robust educational foundation prepared to address complex family and relational challenges in diverse counseling environments.
- CACREP accredited program
- $780 per credit
- 60 total credits
- 2-year completion time
- Online course track
- Courses start every 8 weeks
- Designed for working professionals
- Prepare for counseling leadership
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - jefferson.edu
Master's - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: Sex Therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's Master of Family Therapy in Sex Therapy offers an innovative two-year program targeting advanced therapeutic skills in sexual health and relational counseling. Students dive deep into specialized interventions addressing complex sexual dynamics, trauma, and intimate relationship challenges. The 66-credit curriculum emphasizes culturally sensitive practice, providing comprehensive training in sex therapy techniques. Clinical training integrates bio-psychosocial perspectives, enabling graduates to develop nuanced, compassionate approaches to sexual health and therapeutic intervention.
- 66 total credit hours
- Two-year full-time program
- Center City campus location
- COAMFTE core curriculum model
- Two specialty track options
- Sex Therapy and Family Therapy tracks
- AASECT continuing education approved
- Culturally competent practice focus
- Diverse clinical practice areas
Master's - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: Family Therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's Master of Family Therapy in Family Therapy prepares clinicians to navigate intricate family systems and relationship dynamics. This comprehensive program delivers advanced training in therapeutic interventions across diverse family contexts, emphasizing culturally competent practice. Students explore complex interpersonal challenges, trauma-informed care, and systemic approaches to mental health. The curriculum integrates bio-psychosocial perspectives, equipping graduates with sophisticated skills to address contemporary family transitions and relational complexities.
- 66-credit master's program
- Two-year full-time format
- Center City campus location
- COAMFTE core curriculum model
- Two specialty track options
- Sex therapy and family therapy tracks
- Culturally competent practice focus
- AASECT CE credit approved
- Diverse clinical practice areas
- Bio-psychosocial approach
La Salle University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - lasalle.edu
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy (M.A.)
Campus Based - Visit Website
La Salle University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy stands out for its COAMFTE accreditation, ensuring a high standard of education and professional preparation. This on-campus program delves deep into systems theory, equipping students with the necessary skills to address family and relationship dynamics effectively. A distinctive feature is the 12-month clinical placement, offering real-world experience in therapeutic settings. The curriculum is meticulously designed to meet Pennsylvania licensure requirements, with additional coursework focusing on children and adolescent therapy. Graduates are well-prepared for licensure, diverse career paths, and further doctoral studies, making it a top choice for aspiring marriage and family therapists in Pennsylvania.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 12-month Clinical Placement
- Licensure Preparation Focus
- On-Campus Master's Program
- Systems Theory Foundation
- Pennsylvania Licensure Ready
- Children/Adolescent Therapy Courses
- Doctoral Study Preparation
Geneva College
Beaver Falls, PA - Private 4-year - geneva.edu
Master's - M.A. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Geneva College offers a Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, blending online and on-campus learning for flexibility. This 60-credit program emphasizes a faith-based approach, integrating biblical perspectives with clinical practice. Students undertake a 100-hour direct service practicum and a 600-hour internship, gaining hands-on experience in relational therapy. The curriculum focuses on family systems, ethical counseling, and therapeutic interventions, preparing graduates for licensure and diverse counseling roles. Highlights include CACREP accreditation, flexible delivery formats, and a strong emphasis on professional ethics and advanced counseling skills.
- 60-credit Marriage & Family Track
- Online and On-Campus Options
- Faith-Based Counseling Approach
- Comprehensive Practicum Experience
- 100-hour Direct Service Requirement
- Internship with 600 Clinical Hours
- Biblical Worldview Integration
- Professional Ethics Training
- Advanced Counseling Skills Development
Master's - M.A. in Counseling
Concentration: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Geneva College's M.A. in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling is a CACREP-accredited program designed for those seeking to make a difference through Christ-centered therapy. Offering both online and campus options, this 60-credit program can be completed in 2-4 years, with a tuition rate of $699 per credit hour. The curriculum covers comprehensive counseling techniques, with a special focus on marriage and family dynamics. Students must complete a 600-hour internship, ensuring ample clinical experience. The program stands out for its integration of Christian perspectives, flexible learning formats, and preparation for professional counseling careers.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- Online and Campus Options
- 60 Credit Hour Program
- 2-4 Years Completion Time
- $699 Per Credit Hour
- Marriage, Family Counseling Concentration
- 600 Hour Internship Required
- Christian Perspective Integration
- Multiple Delivery Formats Available
- Comprehensive Counseling Curriculum
Pennsylvania’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. The fastest MFT degree programs can be found on our guide here.
Pennsylvania’s Cheapest MFT Programs
- La Salle University offers one of the most affordable COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs in the state, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious students.
- Thomas Jefferson University and Drexel University provide financial aid, graduate assistantships, and tuition assistance programs, helping students reduce tuition expenses.
- Loan forgiveness programs for LMFTs working in underserved areas help students offset tuition costs while gaining valuable clinical experience.
- Online and hybrid MFT programs may provide competitive tuition rates, offering financial flexibility for working students.
Students prioritizing affordability should explore state and federal tuition assistance programs, employer tuition reimbursement, and scholarships to lower out-of-pocket education costs.
How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in Pennsylvania
1. Earn a Master’s or Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Complete a COAMFTE-accredited or regionally accredited MFT program that meets Pennsylvania’s licensure requirements.
- Ensure coursework covers family therapy models, ethics, trauma-informed care, and clinical assessment techniques.
2. Complete 3,000 Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience
- Gain post-graduate clinical hours, with 1,500 hours of direct client contact under the supervision of a licensed MFT.
- Work in approved therapy settings, such as mental health agencies, hospitals, private practices, or telehealth services.
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 therapy interventions.
4. Apply for Licensure Through the Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors
- Submit official transcripts, proof of supervised hours, and national exam scores for licensure approval.
- Complete any additional state-specific licensing requirements, including background checks and continuing education requirements.
5. Maintain Licensure with Continuing Education
- Complete 30 continuing education (CE) hours every two years, including coursework in professional ethics, trauma-informed care, and advanced clinical techniques.
- Attend professional development workshops, online training programs, and therapy conferences 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 clinics, and school-based therapy programs. Becoming an LMFT differs slightly by state but if you want to check out our full guide of becoming an LMFT you can start to plan your journey to licensure.
LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers strong career opportunities for LMFTs, with demand increasing in urban centers, rural communities, and telehealth services. The average salary for LMFTs in Pennsylvania is $67,800 per year, with experienced professionals earning over $95,000 annually.
Where LMFTs Work in Pennsylvania
- Private practice therapists in Pennsylvania often earn higher salaries and have flexible work schedules.
- Community mental health centers and hospitals employ LMFTs for integrated behavioral health services.
- School-based mental health programs allow LMFTs to work with children, adolescents, and families in educational settings.
- Teletherapy expansion in Pennsylvania provides additional job opportunities, allowing therapists to serve clients remotely while maintaining a flexible work schedule.
With competitive salaries, diverse career paths, and increasing demand for mental health services, Pennsylvania remains a top destination for LMFT professionals.
Pennsylvania offers several high-quality 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, Pennsylvania is an excellent location for aspiring LMFTs.
For students seeking a well-rounded, cost-effective, and career-driven MFT education, Pennsylvania’s programs provide the clinical training, licensure preparation, and real-world experience necessary to succeed in private practice, community mental health, and behavioral health organizations. Whether working in urban therapy centers or supporting rural mental health initiatives, LMFTs in Pennsylvania play a crucial role in strengthening family relationships and improving mental health outcomes across the state.
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