Central Connecticut State University is one of the few public institutions in the state offering a COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. That accreditation, paired with public university tuition rates, makes CCSU's 63-credit program a rare combination in a region where most accredited MFT degrees carry private school price tags.

Classes are held in the evening, a deliberate design choice for working adults who cannot pause their careers for a full-time daytime cohort. The curriculum aligns directly with Connecticut's LMFT licensure requirements, so graduates are not left bridging gaps between what they studied and what the state licensing board demands. Understanding the difference between COAMFTE vs CACREP accreditation is key to appreciating why that alignment matters.

For prospective students weighing cost against credential strength, CCSU occupies a specific niche: affordable, accredited, and clinically focused, but limited to an on-campus, in-person format in New Britain.

CCSU MFT Program Quick Facts

Save this snapshot for easy reference. These verified figures cover the essentials you need before diving deeper into curriculum, costs, and admissions details for Central Connecticut State University's Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Is CCSU a Good MFT Program?

Central Connecticut State University's MS in Marriage and Family Therapy is designed for working adults in Connecticut who want a COAMFTE-accredited, clinically intensive degree without leaving the workforce. If you are employed full-time and need evening classes, live in the greater Hartford area, and want public-university pricing, CCSU should be near the top of your list.¹

Who This Program Fits Best

The ideal candidate is a Connecticut resident who values affordability and hands-on clinical training over brand prestige or niche specialization. Because the program follows a cohort model and runs on an evening schedule across roughly 36 months, it is built around the reality that most students hold jobs during the day. The 63-credit curriculum is anchored in a Metaframeworks theoretical orientation, which gives graduates a versatile, integrative lens rather than locking them into a single school of thought.²

Key Strengths

• COAMFTE accreditation: Graduating from a COAMFTE-accredited program is the clearest path to licensure portability across states. Many licensing boards either require or strongly prefer accredited training, so this credential carries real weight if you ever relocate.¹
• Public-university tuition: As a Connecticut State University, CCSU offers significantly lower per-credit costs than private alternatives, making the total investment for 63 credits far more manageable.
• Evening scheduling: Classes meet in the evening, which means you do not have to choose between earning a paycheck and earning your degree. Few COAMFTE-accredited programs in the state offer this level of scheduling flexibility.
• Established clinical placement network: The program requires 400 direct client-contact hours (including 200 with couples or families) and 100 supervision hours. CCSU has longstanding relationships with clinical sites across Connecticut, which streamlines what can otherwise be one of the most stressful parts of an MFT program.¹

Honest Limitations

• No online or hybrid option: Every course is delivered on campus. If you live far from New Britain or need remote coursework, this is a non-starter.
• No formal specialization tracks: The program does not offer concentrations in areas like sex therapy, medical family therapy, or child and adolescent therapy. Students interested in a subspecialty will need to seek additional training or electives outside the program.¹
• Smaller cohort, fewer electives: A tighter cohort fosters close mentoring relationships, but it also means the elective catalog is narrower than what you would find at a larger university.

When to Consider Alternatives

Look elsewhere if you need fully online delivery, want a doctoral pathway (CCSU offers a master's only), or are set on a program with dedicated tracks in trauma, sex therapy, or medical family therapy. If online coursework is a priority, reviewing the best online MFT programs can help you find a better match. Similarly, if a doctoral degree is the goal, comparing doctorate in marriage and family therapy options will clarify your next step.

Questions to Ask Yourself

CCSU MFT Program Cost and Tuition

Tuition is one of the first questions prospective students ask, and CCSU's status as a public university gives it a meaningful edge over private alternatives in Connecticut. Here is what you should expect to budget for the 63-credit Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Per-Credit Rates and Mandatory Fees

For the 2025-2026 academic year, CCSU's graduate tuition is $481 per credit.¹ On top of that, every credit carries a general university fee of $328, bringing the effective per-credit cost to $809.¹ A $65 registration fee is also assessed each term. These rates apply to Connecticut residents. Out-of-state students should contact CCSU's bursar office directly for current differential rates, as the published fee schedules primarily detail the in-state structure.

While CCSU does participate in the New England Regional Student Program for undergraduate students, that benefit has not been confirmed at the graduate level for the MFT program specifically.² If you live in another New England state, it is worth inquiring with the graduate admissions office about whether any regional tuition agreements apply to your situation.

Estimated Total Program Cost

At the in-state rate of $809 per credit, the 63-credit degree comes to roughly $50,967 in tuition and university fees alone. Add in registration fees across the semesters you are enrolled (typically six to eight terms depending on your course load), and total out-of-pocket costs before financial aid will likely land in the low-to-mid $50,000 range. Books, liability insurance for practicum, and personal expenses would be additional.

For context, private MFT programs in Connecticut and the broader Northeast can charge $900 to $1,200 or more per credit, pushing total program costs well above $70,000 and sometimes past $90,000. CCSU's public-university pricing can save you tens of thousands of dollars while still delivering a COAMFTE-accredited credential, the same gold-standard accreditation that top private programs carry. If cost is a primary concern, our list of cheapest MFT programs offers additional options worth exploring.

Financial Aid and Assistantships

CCSU graduate students are eligible for federal financial aid, including Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans. Filing the FAFSA each year is the essential first step. Beyond loans, several avenues can reduce your net cost:

• Graduate assistantships: CCSU offers a limited number of graduate assistantships that typically include a tuition waiver and a modest stipend. Competition is real, so apply early and express interest to the MFT department.
• Departmental scholarships: Check with the Marriage and Family Therapy program office for any MFT-specific awards or tuition waivers that rotate year to year.
• External funding: Organizations such as the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and various state foundations periodically offer scholarships for students in COAMFTE-accredited programs.

Is the Cost Justified?

When you weigh CCSU's total price tag against the earning potential of a licensed MFT in Connecticut, where the cost of living supports higher-than-national-average salaries for therapists, the return on investment is strong. Graduating with significantly less debt than peers from private programs means you can afford to take the clinical positions that genuinely interest you rather than chasing the highest-paying role simply to service loans. For budget-conscious students who want rigorous, accredited training without a six-figure price tag, CCSU is one of the most compelling options in the state.

CCSU MFT Tuition Breakdown: In-State vs Out-of-State

Central Connecticut State University's 63-credit Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy is priced at public university rates, making it one of the more affordable COAMFTE-accredited options in the Northeast. Students who qualify for the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE) Regional Student Program rate pay a discounted out-of-state tuition that falls well below the standard non-resident price.

Curriculum and Clinical Training at CCSU

CCSU's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy is a 63-credit program built around a structured sequence of core coursework, intensive clinical training, and a small elective component.¹ Because the program is COAMFTE-accredited, its curriculum aligns with the educational standards required for LMFT licensure in Connecticut and most other states. The program does not offer a standalone graduate certificate in MFT; the master's degree is the only credential available.

How the 63 Credits Break Down

The majority of credits cover core MFT coursework grounded in systemic theory, family development, ethics, psychopathology, research methods, and evidence-based treatment models. Clinical practicum and internship courses account for a substantial share of the credit load, and students may choose an optional thesis track for additional scholarly depth.² Elective opportunities allow some tailoring, though the program is designed as a cohesive, sequenced plan of study rather than a cafeteria-style curriculum. Students should also note that 12 prerequisite credits are required before beginning the core MFT sequence, so applicants without a behavioral-science background will need to complete foundational coursework first.²

Clinical Training Model

Clinical experience at CCSU is sequenced in two phases, and the volume of direct client contact is one of the program's defining features.¹

• Practicum: Students complete two semesters of practicum at approximately 12 hours per week, gaining initial exposure to client work under close supervision.
• Internship: Following practicum, the internship phase spans a full 12 months at roughly 20 hours per week, placing students in community agencies, hospitals, or private practice settings.
• Direct client hours: Students accumulate a minimum of 400 direct client contact hours, with at least 200 of those hours involving couples or families.
• Supervision: A total of 100 supervision hours are required, and at least 50 of those must incorporate review of recorded sessions. CCSU maintains an on-campus clinical laboratory equipped for this purpose.

This layered clinical model means graduates leave with a depth of supervised experience that positions them well for the post-degree supervised practice period required for LMFT licensure.

Program Duration and Pacing

The standard timeline for full-time students is approximately 36 months (three years), which accounts for the evening course schedule and the 12-month internship.¹ Part-time enrollment is possible, and students have up to six years to complete the degree.² Because classes are offered on an evening schedule and clinical placements carry substantial weekly hour commitments, working adults should plan carefully to balance employment with their training obligations. A three-year pace is typical for most students who maintain consistent enrollment.

What the Curriculum Prepares You For

By combining rigorous academic coursework with 400-plus hours of face-to-face client work, CCSU's curriculum is designed to produce graduates who can move directly into supervised clinical practice and sit for the national MFT licensing examination. The sequenced practicum-to-internship pipeline, paired with the program's network of community placement sites, gives students exposure to diverse populations and treatment settings before they ever apply for licensure.

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Admissions Requirements and Deadlines for CCSU's MFT Program

CCSU admits a limited cohort of MFT students once per year, so understanding every requirement and timeline is essential if you want a competitive application.¹ Below is a full breakdown of what the program expects.

Core Application Materials

To apply you will need the following:

• Completed bachelor's degree: Any accredited four-year institution qualifies; a major in psychology, family studies, or a related field is helpful but not strictly required.²
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.70: If your cumulative GPA falls below this threshold, the program asks you to submit a written explanation addressing the circumstances. Applicants who already hold graduate-level coursework should aim for a 3.00 GPA on that transcript.³
• Official transcripts: From every post-secondary institution you have attended.
• Statement of purpose: A personal essay that outlines your interest in marriage and family therapy, your relevant experience, and your professional goals.¹
• Two letters of recommendation: These should come from individuals who can speak to your academic ability, clinical potential, or professional character. Former professors and supervisors in behavioral-health settings are strong choices.¹
• Current resume or CV: Highlighting any counseling, social service, or research experience.
• Application fee: A non-refundable $50 fee submitted through the online application portal.¹

GRE Policy

CCSU does not require the GRE or any other standardized entrance exam for MFT applicants.² This removes a common financial and logistical barrier that many prospective students face, placing it among a growing number of MFT programs without GRE requirements. The admissions committee instead places greater weight on your personal statement, letters of recommendation, and overall academic record.

Application Deadline and Admission Cycle

The program operates on a fixed admission cycle with enrollment available only in the fall semester. The application deadline is February 1.³ Because the cohort is intentionally small and the program is competitive, submitting a polished application well before that date is strongly recommended. Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to receive full consideration.

What Makes Admission Competitive

After an initial review of written materials, the department invites select applicants to an interview. This is a required step in the process, not optional, and it gives the faculty a chance to assess your interpersonal skills, self-awareness, and readiness for intensive clinical training.¹ Cohort sizes are kept small to ensure each student receives adequate supervision during practicum placements, which means acceptance rates can be selective even among qualified applicants.

If you hold a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field, consider completing a few foundational courses in human development, psychology, or family dynamics before applying. While not a formal prerequisite, relevant coursework signals commitment and strengthens your candidacy in a competitive pool.

Apply online through CCSU's graduate admissions portal and confirm that all supplemental materials reach the Marriage and Family Therapy department by the February 1 deadline.

Online and Flexible Learning Options at CCSU

The single most important thing to know before you apply: the CCSU MFT program is not available online. This is one of the most common misconceptions that surfaces in search results, and it can cost you valuable planning time if you build your timeline around a remote option that does not exist. Every course in the program is delivered on campus at CCSU's New Britain location.

Evening Schedule for Working Professionals

CCSU structures its MFT courses primarily in the evening, a deliberate design choice that opens the door to students who hold daytime jobs. Classes typically meet on weekday evenings, and the program's sequencing allows students to progress through the curriculum at a pace that does not demand quitting a full-time position. Some coursework may also be scheduled during summer sessions, which can help students stay on track toward timely completion. If you are balancing work and school, this evening format is the program's main flexibility lever, and it is worth discussing your specific scheduling needs with an advisor before you commit.

Why Most COAMFTE Programs Are Not Fully Online

COAMFTE accreditation standards place heavy emphasis on supervised clinical practice, direct client contact, and live supervision of relational therapy sessions. These requirements are difficult, and in many cases impossible, to replicate in a purely virtual environment. Marriage and family therapy is inherently relational work: students learn to read room dynamics, manage in-session conflict, and co-regulate emotional intensity. That training depends on face-to-face interaction with clients, peers, and supervisors. As a result, fully online COAMFTE accredited programs are rare, and those that do exist still require students to complete clinical practicum hours in person at approved sites.

If You Need an Online Program

If on-campus attendance in central Connecticut is not feasible for you, a small number of COAMFTE-accredited programs nationwide do offer hybrid or primarily online formats. Before enrolling in any of them, verify two things: that the program will help you secure a clinical placement in your geographic area, and that the program's accreditation status is current. Clinical placement support varies widely among online programs, and a gap in that support can delay your graduation and licensure. Our mft program comparison chart can help you compare your options side by side.

Career Outcomes and LMFT Licensure Pathway in Connecticut

Graduating from a COAMFTE-accredited program like CCSU's positions you well for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) status in Connecticut, but the degree alone is not the finish line. Understanding the full licensure pathway helps you plan your timeline and budget realistically.

Connecticut LMFT Licensure Requirements

The Connecticut Department of Public Health requires the following to earn your LMFT license:¹

• Graduate degree: A master's or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy from a COAMFTE-accredited or regionally accredited institution.
• Pre-degree clinical hours: At least 500 hours of direct client contact and 100 hours of clinical supervision completed during your graduate program.
• Post-degree supervised experience: A minimum of 24 months of post-graduation practice that includes 1,000 hours of direct client contact and 100 hours of supervision (at least 50 of which must be individual supervision).
• National exam: A passing score on the AMFTRB national MFT licensing examination.
• Application fee: $200, with a $200 renewal fee and 15 hours of continuing education per renewal cycle.

CCSU's clinical training sequence is designed to meet the pre-degree hour requirements, so the 500 direct-contact hours and 100 supervision hours you accumulate in practicum and internship count toward licensure from day one. That means your post-graduation timeline starts at the 24-month supervised-experience phase rather than further back.

Salary and Employment Outlook

Marriage and family therapists in Connecticut earn a median annual wage in the range of $65,000 to $70,000, according to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data for occupation code 21-1013.² That figure sits notably above the national median of roughly $60,000 to $61,000. Demand for MFTs continues to grow as behavioral health integration expands across healthcare systems, schools, and community agencies. Connecticut's comparatively higher cost of living is partially offset by these above-average wages, and clinicians who eventually move into private practice or supervisory roles often earn more.

The Portability Advantage of COAMFTE Accreditation

One practical benefit worth highlighting: because CCSU holds COAMFTE accreditation, your degree is recognized by licensing boards in virtually every state. If you relocate after graduation, you will not face the hurdle of having your program's coursework or clinical hours questioned. For a broader look at what each state expects, review this guide to becoming an MFT. Many states explicitly require or strongly prefer a COAMFTE-accredited degree, so graduating from CCSU keeps your options open for licensure portability through the AMFTRB exam and reciprocity agreements. For therapists who may eventually practice across state lines or pursue telehealth clients in multiple jurisdictions, this is a meaningful career asset.

LMFT Licensure Steps After Graduating from CCSU

Earning your COAMFTE-accredited master's degree from CCSU is the critical first step, but the path to independent practice as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Connecticut involves several additional milestones. Here is the typical credentialing ladder and approximate timeline for each stage.

How CCSU Compares to Other Connecticut MFT Programs

Connecticut is home to a small but competitive set of MFT programs, and choosing the right one requires more than a gut feeling. A structured comparison of cost, accreditation, format, and outcomes will help you make a confident decision.

Start With Accreditation and Program Structure

CCSU's Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy holds COAMFTE accreditation, as does the MFT program at Southern Connecticut State University.¹ COAMFTE accreditation matters because it signals that the curriculum, clinical training hours, and faculty qualifications meet a national standard, and it streamlines the path to LMFT licensure in most states. When evaluating any program, confirm its accreditation status directly through COAMFTE's online directory. CCSU's program requires 60 credits and is delivered through an evening track over roughly 36 months, a format that suits working adults who cannot attend daytime classes.²

Compare Outcomes With Public Data

No single ranking tells the full story, so pull data from multiple sources and compare them side by side.

• Salary and job outlook: Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics at BLS.gov to review salary percentiles and employment projections for marriage and family therapists in Connecticut. The national projected job growth rate for the occupation is 16 percent, but state-level demand can vary.³
• Program-specific outcomes: Check each school's MFT program website for published graduation rates, licensure exam pass rates, and job placement statistics. COAMFTE-accredited programs are required to track and disclose these metrics.
• Accreditor and licensing board reports: Review outcome reports published by COAMFTE and the Connecticut Department of Public Health's licensing division. These can reveal how consistently a program's graduates meet licensure standards.
• Professional association insights: Contact the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy or the Connecticut Association for Marriage and Family Therapy for any employer-perception surveys or workforce studies that differentiate programs by reputation or hiring preference.

Build Your Own Comparison Table

Rather than relying on a single "best programs" list, create a simple spreadsheet that tracks these factors for every Connecticut program you are considering.

• Format and schedule: Evening only, daytime cohort, hybrid, or fully online.
• Total estimated cost: In-state tuition per credit multiplied by total credits, plus fees.
• Clinical training model: Number of required practicum hours, diversity of approved internship sites, and whether the program places you or you find your own site.
• Time to degree: Some programs can be completed in two years of full-time study; CCSU's evening structure extends to about three years.
• Best-fit student: A program designed for mid-career changers with evening classes serves a very different population than a full-time daytime cohort geared toward recent graduates.

Gathering this information directly from program websites, accrediting bodies, and professional associations puts you in control of the comparison. If you are weighing whether the LMFT vs LMHC credential better fits your goals, clarify that before committing to any program. CCSU's combination of COAMFTE accreditation, an evening schedule, and public-university pricing makes it a strong contender, but the right program ultimately depends on your budget, timeline, and career goals.

Should You Apply to CCSU's MFT Program?

Not every program is the right fit for every student. Use the guidance below to decide whether CCSU's COAMFTE-accredited master's in marriage and family therapy aligns with your goals, budget, and lifestyle. If most of the 'Apply if' statements resonate, CCSU deserves a top spot on your shortlist.

Frequently Asked Questions About CCSU's MFT Program

Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about Central Connecticut State University's Marriage and Family Therapy program. For deeper coverage of any topic, explore the relevant sections earlier in this article on marriagefamilytherapist.org.

Is the CCSU Marriage and Family Therapy program COAMFTE accredited?

Yes. CCSU's Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy holds accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). This accreditation confirms the program meets national standards for MFT education and clinical training, which simplifies the licensure process in Connecticut and most other states.

How much does the CCSU MFT program cost?

As a Connecticut State University, CCSU offers competitive graduate tuition. In-state students pay significantly less per credit than out-of-state students. Total program costs depend on the number of credits required and applicable university fees. Financial aid, graduate assistantships, and scholarship opportunities are available. Check CCSU's graduate tuition page for the most current rates and fee schedules.

Can you complete the CCSU MFT program online?

The CCSU MFT program is primarily delivered on campus, with many courses offered during evening hours to accommodate working adults. Because COAMFTE-accredited programs require direct clinical training and supervised practicum hours, fully online completion is not available. However, the evening scheduling format provides meaningful flexibility for students balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

What are the admissions requirements for CCSU's MFT program?

Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, official transcripts, a personal statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a current resume. CCSU does not require GRE scores for admission to the MFT program. Competitive applicants generally hold a minimum GPA around 3.0, though the admissions committee evaluates each application holistically.

How long does it take to complete the CCSU MFT program?

Most full-time students complete the master's program in approximately two to three years. The timeline accounts for required coursework plus clinical practicum and internship hours. Students who attend part time or take advantage of the evening track may need additional semesters. Your individual pace will depend on course load and practicum scheduling.

Does the CCSU MFT program prepare you for LMFT licensure in Connecticut?

Absolutely. The curriculum aligns with Connecticut's Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist requirements, including the academic coursework, supervised clinical hours, and preparation for the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards national examination. Graduates are well positioned to pursue LMFT licensure in Connecticut and in most other states that recognize COAMFTE-accredited training.

Does CCSU offer an MFT graduate certificate or only the master's degree?

CCSU's COAMFTE-accredited offering is a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. The university does not currently advertise a standalone MFT post-graduate certificate at the same level. Students seeking a COAMFTE-accredited credential at CCSU should plan on completing the full master's degree program.