Best Online Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degrees

Online Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) degree programs offer flexible pathways for students to pursue careers as licensed therapists. These programs, available at the master’s, post-master’s certificate, and doctoral levels, prepare students for roles in clinical practice, counseling, and leadership. With options tailored for different goals and backgrounds, online MFT programs make it possible to advance your education without putting your career on hold.

Earning an Online Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) degree provides the convenience of remote learning while maintaining the rigorous clinical and academic training required for licensure. Many online MFT programs offer interactive coursework, virtual classrooms, and supervised clinical placements that allow students to develop hands-on experience in their communities. These programs cater to working professionals, career changers, and students seeking an accredited, high-quality education with the flexibility to balance studies with personal and professional commitments. Whether you are looking for a COAMFTE-accredited master’s program, a post-master’s certificate to expand your expertise, or a doctoral degree in MFT for leadership and research roles, online programs offer a pathway to achieving your career goals in family therapy.

MFT Degree Programs

MFT Degree Program Requirements & Paths

MFT programs require a graduate degree with coursework in psychotherapy, family systems, and clinical training. Programs include practicum hours and state-specific coursework for licensure, with online, hybrid, and on-campus options available.

Affordable MFT programs offer low tuition, financial aid, and online options, helping students reduce costs while meeting licensure requirements.

Accelerated MFT programs can be completed in 16-24 months, with year-round courses and integrated clinical training for a quicker path to licensure.

No-GRE MFT programs do not require standardized tests for admittance. These programs focus on academic background and experience for admissions.

What Is an Online MFT Degree Program and Why Should I Get One?

An online MFT degree program offers the same rigorous training as campus-based programs but with added flexibility. These programs are ideal for career changers, working professionals, and those balancing family responsibilities.

  • Degree Options: You can pursue a Master’s in MFT, a Post-Master’s Certificate, or a Doctorate (DMFT or PhD) depending on your career goals.
  • Licensure Preparation: Most master’s and doctoral programs meet state licensure requirements. Post-master’s certificates help those with related degrees qualify for MFT licensure.
  • Career Impact: MFT degrees open doors to roles in private practice, hospitals, schools, and community clinics.
  • Growing Demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 16% growth in MFT jobs through 2033, much faster than average.

Do I Need an Accredited MFT Degree Program?

Yes, accreditation is critical for licensure and professional credibility. Two key accrediting bodies are:

  • COAMFTE: Accreditation from COAMFTE is preferred for MFT-specific programs and may be required for licensure in some states.
  • CACREP: Commonly accredits counseling programs that offer MFT specializations.

Why Choose an Accredited Program?

  • Meets licensure requirements in most states.
  • Ensures quality education aligned with industry standards.
  • Improves eligibility for financial aid and professional certifications.

MFT licensure requirements vary by state, so it’s essential to choose a program that meets your state’s standards. Many online programs offer state-specific tracks or customizable clinical placements.

Online MFT Degree Programs by State

What MFT Degree Level Should I Enroll in?

Choosing the right MFT degree level depends on your career goals and prior education:

Degree Level
Who’s It For
Career Path
Salary
Individuals holding a bachelor's degree seeking to become licensed marriage and family therapists. This program provides foundational knowledge and clinical skills necessary for entry-level practice.
- Marriage and Family Therapist

- Mental Health Counselor

- Substance Abuse Counselor
$39,090 - $104,710 annually. The median annual wage is $58,510.
Professionals with a master’s degree in a related field (e.g., psychology, social work) aiming to specialize in marriage and family therapy or fulfill additional licensure requirements.
- Specialized MFT roles

- Clinical Supervisor

- Private Practice Owner
$39,090 - $104,710 annually, with potential for higher earnings in supervisory or specialized roles.
Licensed therapists and mental health professionals seeking advanced clinical training, research opportunities, or academic positions. Ideal for those aiming for leadership roles or specializing in complex cases.
- University Professor

- Researcher

- Clinical Director

- Advanced Practitioner
Varies widely based on role:

- Academic positions: $65,000 - $90,000

- Clinical Directors: $80,000 - $100,000+

Note: Salary ranges are approximate and can vary based on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, workplace setting, and demand. Advanced degrees and specializations often lead to higher earning potential.

When choosing the appropriate MFT degree level, consider your current educational background, career objectives, and the specific licensure requirements in your state. Each degree offers unique opportunities and can significantly impact your professional trajectory in the field of marriage and family therapy.

Can I Specialize Within an MFT Program?

Yes! Specializing can help you stand out and pursue your passion within the field. Common MFT specializations include:

  • Trauma Therapy: Helping clients recover from PTSD and emotional trauma.
  • Child and Adolescent Therapy: Supporting the mental health needs of younger clients.
  • Substance Abuse Counseling: Addressing addiction within family systems.
  • LGBTQ+ Family Dynamics: Focusing on issues faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
  • African American Family Studies: Exploring culturally competent therapy approaches.
  • Latino/Latina Family Studies: Providing culturally sensitive counseling to Hispanic communities.

2025 Best Online MFT Degree Programs

Looking for the best online MFT degree programs? At marriagefamilytherapist.org, we've ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and flexibility to suit your needs. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, these programs offer the education you need. We've done the research so you don't have to. Check out our rankings to see which programs made the cut. Learn more about how we rank these programs here.

#1

California Lutheran University

Thousand Oaks, CA - Private 4-year - callutheran.edu

Master's - MS in Counseling Psychology (MFT)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California Lutheran University's Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy delivers a professionally accredited program meticulously designed for aspiring clinical professionals. Aligned with American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) competency standards, this hybrid program provides comprehensive training in therapeutic techniques, professional ethics, and clinical skills. Students receive expert preparation for licensure, developing advanced competencies in mental health counseling across individual, couple, and family therapeutic contexts. The curriculum ensures graduates are comprehensively equipped to deliver compassionate, high-quality therapeutic interventions.

  • AAMFT core competency focused
  • Board of Behavioral Sciences approved
  • Meets state licensure requirements
  • Professional mental health preparation
  • Comprehensive therapeutic training

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy

Concentration: Psychological Trauma - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California Lutheran University's Master of Science in Counseling Psychology offers a specialized Psychological Trauma concentration within the Marital and Family Therapy track. This immersive hybrid program provides advanced clinical training through hands-on experiences in community counseling centers. Students develop expertise in trauma-informed care, systemic understanding, and culturally competent therapeutic approaches. The program emphasizes professional ethics, diverse intervention strategies, and comprehensive clinical skill development, preparing graduates for successful licensure and impactful mental health practice.

  • 12-month practicum placement
  • Two community counseling centers
  • 750 clinical training hours
  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Multiple clinical specializations
  • High licensure exam pass rates
  • Systemic therapy approach
  • Diversity and cultural competence
  • On-site clinical training
  • Professional identity development

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy

Concentration: Attachment Theory - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California Lutheran University's Master of Science in Counseling Psychology features an Attachment Theory concentration within the Marital and Family Therapy framework. This comprehensive hybrid program delivers intensive clinical training through immersive learning experiences in community counseling centers. Students explore advanced attachment-based therapeutic interventions, developing sophisticated skills in individual, couple, and family counseling. The curriculum integrates systemic therapy approaches, cultural competence, and specialized clinical training, empowering graduates to become skilled and compassionate mental health professionals.

  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Two community counseling centers
  • 12-month clinical practicum
  • Multiple clinical specializations
  • High licensing exam pass rates
  • Diverse theoretical training
  • Up to 750 clinical hours
  • Systemic therapy approach
  • Trauma specialization available
  • Online trauma courses

Doctorate - Marital and Family Therapy

Concentration: Family Court Mediation - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California Lutheran University's Marriage and Family Therapy program with Family Court Mediation concentration offers specialized training for professionals seeking expertise in legal and therapeutic intersections. This hybrid program provides comprehensive clinical preparation through innovative learning experiences in counseling centers. Students develop advanced mediation skills, systemic understanding, and cultural competence essential for navigating complex family dynamics. The curriculum emphasizes professional ethics, diverse intervention strategies, and practical clinical training, positioning graduates for successful careers in family court and mental health settings.

  • Systemic understanding approach
  • 12-month practicum placement
  • Two community counseling centers
  • Clinical specialization options
  • High licensing exam pass rates
  • Cohort-based learning model
  • Multiple location options
  • Diverse theoretical training
  • 750 clinical training hours
  • Trauma specialization available
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

John Brown University

Siloam Springs, AR - Private 4-year - jbu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

John Brown University's Master of Science in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy is a hybrid program designed for those seeking licensure. This CACREP accredited program offers a faith-based approach, blending academic rigor with practical clinical training. With a 60-credit curriculum, students enjoy low faculty-to-student ratios, evening/weekend classes, and a 97% employment rate post-graduation. The program emphasizes hands-on experience across multiple Arkansas campuses, preparing graduates for diverse mental health careers. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA and a faculty interview.

  • CACREP accredited program
  • Marriage & Family Therapy emphasis
  • 60 total credit hours
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Evening/weekend classes
  • Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
  • Individual faculty interview required
  • 42 core counseling credits
  • 15 clinical requirement credits
  • 97% post-graduation employment

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

Concentration: Play Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Play Therapy, John Brown University's Master of Science in Counseling hybrid program stands out for its CACREP accreditation and faith-integrated curriculum. The 60-credit program boasts a 100% practicum placement rate and an 87% national exam pass rate, facilitated by licensed counselor faculty. Designed for flexibility with evening/weekend classes across three campuses, it requires a 2.75+ undergraduate GPA. Graduates are well-prepared for licensure and employment, with a notable 97% job placement rate, emphasizing practical skills in play therapy.

  • CACREP Accredited Program
  • 60 total credit hours
  • Marriage & Family Therapy emphasis
  • Three campus locations
  • 87% national exam pass rate
  • Licensed counselor faculty
  • Undergraduate GPA 2.75+ required
  • Practicum placement support
  • 97% job placement rate
  • Evening/weekend classes

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

Concentration: Adventure Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

John Brown University offers a unique Master of Science in Counseling with an Adventure Therapy concentration, blending faith-based learning with CACREP accredited standards. This hybrid program features a 60-credit curriculum, face-to-face training, and a 100% clinical placement rate. With evening/weekend classes and multiple campus options, it caters to aspiring therapists seeking a holistic approach. The program reports an 87% national exam pass rate and requires a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA, along with an admissions interview, to foster personal and professional growth in adventure therapy settings.

  • CACREP Accredited Program
  • Marriage & Family Therapy Emphasis
  • 60 Total Credit Hours
  • Evening/Weekend Classes
  • Multiple Campus Locations
  • 100% Clinical Placement Rate
  • 87% National Exam Pass Rate
  • Minimum 2.75 Undergraduate GPA
  • Individual Admissions Interview
  • Face-to-Face Training Model
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Mount Mercy University

Cedar Rapids, IA - Private 4-year - mtmercy.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to become licensed professionals in mental health counseling. This hybrid program combines comprehensive coursework with practical experience, focusing on therapeutic interventions and evidence-based strategies to address interpersonal dynamics. Graduates are prepared to support individuals, couples, and families through complex emotional challenges, with a curriculum that meets licensure requirements.

  • Master of Arts degree
  • Marriage and Family Therapy focus
  • Professional counseling preparation
  • Licensure-oriented curriculum
  • Mental health professional training

Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Neuroscience and Psychophysiology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Specializing in Neuroscience and Psychophysiology, Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy offers a unique blend of systemic therapy and neuroscience. This COAMFTE-accredited, hybrid program is tailored for working professionals, featuring flexible evening and online classes, no GRE requirement, and practical training at the Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic. Students engage in a neuroscience-based curriculum, preparing them for advanced clinical practice.

  • COAMFTE-accredited MFT program
  • Neuroscience-based curriculum
  • Flexible evening/online classes
  • No GRE required
  • 5- and 10-week course blocks
  • August start date
  • On-site therapy clinic experience
  • Tailored for working professionals

Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Leadership and Social Justice - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

With a concentration in Leadership and Social Justice, Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy stands out for its commitment to preparing therapists who can address systemic issues in mental health. This COAMFTE-accredited program offers a flexible schedule with evening and online classes, no GRE requirement, and hands-on experience at the on-site therapy clinic. The curriculum integrates neuroscience with social justice principles, ideal for aspiring therapists seeking to make a difference.

  • COAMFTE-accredited program
  • No GRE required
  • Evening and online classes
  • Neuroscience-based curriculum
  • August start date
  • 5- and 10-week course blocks
  • On-site therapy clinic
  • Working professional friendly
  • Flexible learning options

Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Advanced Couples Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, with a concentration in Advanced Couples Therapy, provides a deep dive into systemic approaches and neuroscience insights. This COAMFTE-accredited, hybrid program is designed for working professionals, offering flexible learning options, no GRE requirement, and practical experience at the Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic. Graduates emerge as skilled therapists ready to tackle complex relationship dynamics with innovative, research-informed strategies.

  • COAMFTE-accredited MFT program
  • Neuroscience-informed curriculum
  • Flexible evening/online classes
  • No GRE required
  • August start date
  • 5-10 week course blocks
  • On-site therapy clinic
  • Working professional friendly
  • Systemic therapy approach
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#4

Abilene Christian University

Abilene, TX - Private 4-year - acu.edu

Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

Online Learning - Visit Website

Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy program offers a comprehensive educational pathway for aspiring therapists seeking a flexible, high-quality degree. COAMFTE-accredited and designed for professional development, this 60-credit program enables students to complete their studies in approximately 33 months. Students explore diverse therapy domains including couple, family, and child therapy, with opportunities to specialize in areas like Medical Family Therapy and Trauma Treatment. The curriculum emphasizes practical training, providing 100+ internship supervision hours and preparing graduates for national licensure exams. With a competitive tuition rate of $799 per credit hour, the program offers a Christ-centered learning approach and flexible online format.

  • COAMFTE-accredited online program
  • 60 credit hours, 33 months
  • $799 per credit hour
  • 5 unique concentrations
  • Prepares for national licensure
  • 100+ internship supervision hours
  • Christ-centered learning environment
  • Flexible online format
  • Multiple start dates annually

Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Medical Family Therapy Treatment of Trauma - Online Learning - Visit Website

Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy with a Medical Family Therapy Treatment of Trauma concentration provides specialized training for mental health professionals. This COAMFTE-accredited program offers a comprehensive 60-credit curriculum focused on advanced trauma intervention strategies. Students develop expertise in understanding complex medical family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and systemic therapeutic approaches. The program's flexible online format supports working professionals, with competitive tuition and extensive practical experience through 100+ hours of supervised internship. Graduates are well-positioned to address intricate medical and trauma-related family challenges across diverse clinical settings.

  • COAMFTE-accredited online program
  • 60 credit hours, 33 months minimum
  • 5 unique concentration tracks
  • $799 per credit hour
  • 100+ hours supervised internship
  • Prepare for national licensure exam
  • Christ-centered learning approach
  • Flexible online format
  • Multiple start dates available
  • Practice settings: clinics, hospitals, agencies

Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Child and Adolescent Therapy - Online Learning - Visit Website

Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy program with a Child and Adolescent Therapy concentration offers targeted training for professionals dedicated to youth mental health. This COAMFTE-accredited degree provides comprehensive skills in understanding and treating complex childhood and adolescent psychological challenges. Students explore developmental frameworks, family systems theory, and evidence-based interventions specific to young populations. The 60-credit curriculum emphasizes practical training, including 100+ internship supervision hours, preparing graduates to effectively support children and families through nuanced therapeutic approaches. The program's flexible online format enables working professionals to advance their clinical expertise.

  • COAMFTE-accredited online program
  • 60 credit hours, 33 months
  • Multiple therapy concentrations
  • Cost: $799/credit hour
  • 100+ internship supervision hours
  • Prepares for national licensing exam
  • Christ-centered learning environment
  • Flexible online format
  • Start dates: March, May 2025
  • College of Health/Human Services

Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Therapy with Military Families - Online Learning - Visit Website

Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy with a Military Families concentration provides specialized training for therapists serving military personnel and their families. This COAMFTE-accredited program addresses unique psychological challenges faced by military communities, offering evidence-based strategies for supporting resilience and healing. The 60-credit curriculum integrates comprehensive therapeutic techniques with specific insights into military family dynamics. Students develop advanced skills in trauma-informed care, cultural competence, and systemic intervention strategies. With 100+ hours of supervised internship and a flexible online format, the program prepares professionals to make meaningful contributions to military family mental health.

  • 60-credit COAMFTE-accredited program
  • Online flexible learning format
  • Five specialized concentrations
  • $799 per credit hour
  • 33-month minimum completion time
  • 100+ hours supervised internship
  • Prepares for national licensure exam
  • Christ-centered educational approach
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#5

Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR - Public 4-Year - oit.edu

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.

Concentration: Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Integrated Behavioral Healthcare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon Institute of Technology offers a hybrid Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program with concentrations in Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, and Integrated Behavioral Healthcare. This program is designed to prepare students for careers as highly skilled therapists, with a focus on rural mental health, multicultural competence, and trauma-informed approaches. The curriculum covers advanced counseling techniques, ethical practice, and cultural sensitivity, with a strong emphasis on integrated behavioral healthcare. Graduates are well-equipped to address complex family dynamics and serve diverse communities. Highlights include a multicultural mental health focus, rural healthcare specialization, and trauma-informed training.

  • Multicultural mental health focus
  • Rural healthcare specialization
  • Trauma-informed training
  • Medical Family Therapy concentration
  • Substance use disorder expertise
  • Ethical practice emphasis
  • Integrated behavioral healthcare

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.

Concentration: Substance Use Disorder Treatment - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The hybrid Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program at Oregon Institute of Technology specializes in Substance Use Disorder Treatment, preparing students to become compassionate and skilled therapists. With a focus on rural mental health and multicultural competence, the program offers advanced clinical skills training, trauma-informed care, and systemic therapy approaches. It emphasizes cultural sensitivity, ethical practice, and practical training in substance use disorder treatment and medical family therapy. Graduates are prepared to serve diverse communities effectively. Program highlights include a focus on rural mental health, multicultural therapy training, and substance use disorder treatment expertise.

  • Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
  • Focuses on rural mental health
  • Multicultural therapy training
  • Trauma-informed care emphasis
  • Integrated behavioral healthcare
  • Medical Family Therapy practices
  • Substance use disorder treatment
  • Culturally responsive approach
  • Collaboration with local organizations

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.

Concentration: Integrated Behavioral Healthcare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon Institute of Technology's hybrid Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program with a concentration in Integrated Behavioral Healthcare prepares students to be skilled therapists with expertise in rural mental health, medical family therapy, and substance use disorders. The program provides a comprehensive clinical skills development through a multicultural lens, incorporating trauma-informed approaches and integrated behavioral healthcare practices. It focuses on ethical practice, cultural competence, and professional development, aiming to make graduates impactful in diverse community mental health settings. Highlights include a multicultural mental health focus, rural healthcare specialization, and trauma-informed training.

  • Multicultural mental health focus
  • Rural healthcare specialization
  • Trauma-informed training
  • Medical Family Therapy integration
  • Strong local service collaboration
  • Culturally responsive curriculum
  • Ethical practice emphasis
  • Substance use disorder expertise
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#6

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 hybrid 90-credit program accredited by COAMFTE. It uniquely prepares students for licensure and careers in mental health by focusing on trauma, addiction, and specialized populations. The program combines online and on-campus learning, requiring a minimum of 500 direct client hours and offering telehealth practice training. Graduates are equipped with evidence-based techniques and a systemic perspective for diverse therapy approaches in healthcare, education, and private practice.

  • 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

Drexel University offers a Master of Family Therapy program concentrating on LGBT and Specific Populations, blending online and on-campus studies. This 90-credit COAMFTE-accredited program emphasizes advanced skills in trauma, addiction, and working with diverse groups, including specialized training for LGBT communities. Students complete at least 500 clinical hours, preparing for Pennsylvania MFT licensure and careers in various settings like healthcare and private practice. The program also features an on-campus clinical simulation center for hands-on learning.

  • 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
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL - Private 4-year - northwestern.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy at Northwestern University focuses on the Integrative Systemic Therapy approach, offering both online and on-campus options. This COAMFTE-accredited program is tailored for professionals seeking licensure, with a curriculum that includes in-person clinical training near students' communities. It features rolling admissions, four annual cohort starts, and no GRE requirement, providing flexibility for students. The program prepares graduates to address complex relational and systemic issues, making them self-reflective and skilled therapists. Its licensure-focused curriculum and innovative approach make it a standout choice for MFT education.

  • Online and on-campus options
  • COAMFTE accredited program
  • No GRE required
  • Four annual cohort starts
  • Integrative Systemic Therapy approach
  • In-person clinical training
  • Rolling admissions process
  • Licensure-focused curriculum

Doctorate - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

Online Learning - Visit Website

Northwestern University's online Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy is a COAMFTE-accredited program designed for aspiring therapists. It offers a research-driven curriculum and intensive clinical training, enabling students to graduate in as few as 21 months. The program emphasizes multicultural competence and advanced therapeutic skills, preparing graduates to support diverse populations. With no GRE requirement, small class sizes, and flexible online learning, students benefit from a supportive environment. The program includes 400 hours of clinical fieldwork and 125 relational clinical hours, ensuring hands-on experience. Placement specialists assist students in their career paths, making it a comprehensive choice for future MFT professionals.

  • Online MFT Master's degree
  • 24 months full-time completion
  • COAMFTE accredited program
  • No GRE required
  • 400 hours clinical fieldwork
  • 125 relational clinical hours
  • 15 students per classroom
  • Placement specialists assist
  • Integrative systemic therapeutic model
  • Immersive experience included
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#8

Yeshiva University

New York, NY - Private 4-year - yu.edu

Master's - M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy

Campus Based - Visit Website

Yeshiva University's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy is a licensure-qualifying program located in NYC, offering a 60-credit curriculum focused on couples therapy, family dynamics, and crisis intervention. Students benefit from diverse practicum experiences, expert faculty, and a high employment rate, with opportunities to specialize in areas like children and adolescent counseling. The program emphasizes in-person classes, extensive field placement options, and a pathway to LMFT licensure, making it ideal for those seeking dynamic careers in psychological counseling.

  • NYSED Licensure-qualifying program
  • 60 credit hours total
  • In-person classes in NYC
  • Fall semester start
  • Pathway to LMFT licensure
  • Extensive field placement options
  • Four-semester advanced track
  • 100% post-graduation employment
  • Subspecialties available
  • Children and adolescent counseling

Master's - M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Couples and family crisis counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website

Specializing in Couples and Family Crisis Counseling, Yeshiva University's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy prepares students for licensure with a focus on addressing complex family dynamics and crisis situations. The 60-credit program in NYC offers extensive practical experience through diverse field placements, leading to a 100% employment rate post-graduation. Students develop advanced therapeutic skills, benefiting from career networking and multiple subspecialty options within the vibrant setting of New York City.

  • NYSED Licensure-qualifying program
  • 60 credit hour program
  • Fall semester start
  • In-person NYC classes
  • Four semester advanced track
  • Extensive field placement network
  • Multiple subspecialty options
  • 100% employment rate
  • Career networking opportunities
  • Diverse practicum experiences

Master's - M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Child and adolescent therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website

Yeshiva University's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Therapy offers a 60-credit, licensure-qualifying program in NYC. Designed for aspiring mental health professionals, it provides intensive training in counseling techniques for young populations, supported by extensive field placements and a curriculum leading to a 100% employment rate. The program features in-person classes, multiple subspecialty tracks, and a clear pathway to becoming an LMFT, with an application deadline of July 31.

  • NYSED Licensure-qualifying program
  • 60 credit hours full-time
  • Fall semester start
  • In-person NYC classes
  • Extensive field placement options
  • Path to becoming LMFT
  • Multiple subspecialty tracks
  • Career networking opportunities
  • 100% employment rate
  • Application deadline July 31
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#9

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - usc.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Southern California offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) online, tailored for aspiring therapists seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality. This program stands out for its rigorous curriculum that merges theoretical foundations with hands-on practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for licensure and diverse clinical settings. A unique aspect is its focus on cultural humility and telehealth, preparing students to meet the evolving needs of families and couples in various contexts. With supervised clinical work and a strong emphasis on research-practice integration, USC's MFT program is ideal for those aiming to make a significant impact in the field of mental health.

  • Fully online MFT program
  • 2-year full-time enrollment
  • California licensure pathway
  • Field work in residence state
  • Holistic mental health approach
  • Telehealth and in-person skills
  • Cultural humility focus
  • Supervised clinical work
  • Multiple career opportunities
  • Research-practice integration
#10

Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, CA - Private 4-year - apu.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Azusa Pacific University offers a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy, blending theoretical and practical approaches in a hybrid format. This program stands out for its Christ-centered counseling perspective, integrating theology and ethics into professional training. Students gain expertise in psychotherapy techniques to support individuals, couples, and families, preparing for impactful careers in mental health. Highlights include an interdisciplinary curriculum and a strong emphasis on ethical practice.

  • Master's with MFT emphasis
  • Christ-centered counseling approach
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum
  • Theoretical and applied practice
  • Focuses on individual/family counseling
  • Professional counseling preparation
  • Includes theology and ethics studies

Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) Option - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology at Azusa Pacific University, with a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) Option, provides a hybrid learning experience. It combines rigorous academic training with a Christ-centered approach, focusing on holistic mental health and relationship wellness. The program prepares students for professional counseling roles, emphasizing interdisciplinary studies in theology and ethics. Graduates are equipped to address diverse interpersonal dynamics, making a difference in clients' lives.

  • Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
  • Christ-centered counseling approach
  • Interdisciplinary theological studies
  • Professional counseling techniques
  • Holistic mental health training

Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy

Concentration: Gottman Couples Therapy Level 1 Certificate - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Azusa Pacific University's Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, featuring a Gottman Couples Therapy Level 1 Certificate, offers a unique hybrid program. It prepares students for specialized roles in marriage and family therapy, with a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge. The curriculum includes interdisciplinary studies in theology and ethics, fostering a comprehensive understanding of mental health counseling. This program is ideal for those seeking a Christ-centered approach to professional counseling.

  • Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
  • Interdisciplinary theological approach
  • Professional counseling emphasis
  • Comprehensive psychotherapy training
  • Christ-centered counseling perspective
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Source: NCES, IPEDS 2023. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

MFT Program Questions

Do MFT programs require clinical training?

Yes, MFT programs require clinical training. Students must complete supervised clinical hours, which typically include practicums and internships where they gain hands-on experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families. This clinical training is essential for licensure and helps students develop practical counseling skills.

What is the difference between an MFT degree and a general counseling degree?

An MFT degree focuses specifically on family systems, couples counseling, and relationship dynamics. In contrast, a general counseling degree covers a broader range of mental health issues but may not emphasize family systems or relationship therapy. MFT graduates are trained to address interpersonal and relational challenges, while general counseling graduates often specialize in areas such as addiction, trauma, or individual therapy.

What Is the difference between an MFT and an LMFT?

An MFT (Marriage and Family Therapist) is someone with a degree in marriage and family therapy, but they may not be licensed yet. An LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) has completed the required post-graduate supervised clinical hours, passed the state licensure exam, and holds a license to practice independently.