Connecticut has only a handful of COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs, which makes the University of Saint Joseph's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy a notable option for anyone planning to practice in the state. The program is delivered on campus at USJ's West Hartford location, built around small cohorts and a 60-credit curriculum that emphasizes supervised clinical hours from early in the degree sequence. Graduates leave licensure-ready for the LMFT credential in Connecticut and, because of COAMFTE accreditation, hold a portable degree recognized across most U.S. states.

The tradeoff is cost. As a private institution, USJ's tuition runs meaningfully higher than public alternatives like the Central Connecticut State University MFT program, and the on-campus format limits flexibility for working adults or those outside the region.

USJ MFT Program at a Glance

The University of Saint Joseph offers a COAMFTE-accredited Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy based at its West Hartford, Connecticut campus. Below are the essential facts prospective students should know before applying.

Is University of Saint Joseph a Good MFT Program?

The University of Saint Joseph's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy holds COAMFTE accreditation, placing it among a select group of programs nationally that meet the gold standard for MFT education.¹ For the right student, it is an excellent choice. For others, a different program may be a better match. Here is how to think through the fit.

Who This Program Serves Best

USJ's MFT program is designed for students who want a clinically intensive, relationally focused graduate experience in the Hartford metro area. Small cohort sizes create an intimate learning environment where you build strong peer connections and close relationships with faculty mentors.² If you thrive on personal attention rather than large lecture halls, and you want your professors to know your name and your clinical growth trajectory, this structure works in your favor. The program also emphasizes cultural responsiveness, self-care, and a service-oriented ethic rooted in the university's Catholic mission, making it a strong fit for students drawn to community-centered clinical work.¹

Key Strengths

• COAMFTE accreditation: Graduating from a COAMFTE-accredited program simplifies the licensure process in most states, giving you portability if you relocate after earning your degree.¹
• On-campus clinical training: USJ provides practicum opportunities through its own clinical facilities and a network of community sites, including mental health agencies, hospitals, schools, and youth organizations. You gain supervised hours in real clinical settings from early in the program.³
• Systemic training with an ethical foundation: The curriculum integrates systemic therapy models with a strong emphasis on ethics and service, preparing you to work with diverse populations across a range of practice settings.³
• Connecticut's demand for licensed therapists: The state has a well-documented need for behavioral health professionals, which positions USJ graduates favorably in the local job market upon licensure.

Honest Drawbacks to Consider

• Cost relative to public alternatives: As a private institution, USJ's tuition is likely higher than what you would pay at a state university offering a comparable MFT or counseling degree. If you are weighing a public option in the same state, the Central Connecticut State University MFT program is one nearby comparison worth examining. The tuition difference can add up over the full length of the program.
• Limited schedule flexibility: The program's on-campus, cohort-based model can be difficult to navigate if you are working full-time or managing significant family responsibilities. Classes and clinical requirements follow a structured sequence.²
• Smaller alumni network: Compared to larger state universities that graduate dozens of MFT or counseling students each year, USJ's intimate cohorts mean fewer alumni connections spread across clinical agencies and private practices.

When to Consider an Alternative

You should look elsewhere if you need a fully online MFT program, as USJ's format requires on-campus attendance and local clinical placements. If cost is your primary deciding factor, compare USJ's total tuition against public university options before committing. And if you are pursuing a doctoral-level COAMFTE-accredited program, USJ's offering is at the master's level only, so you would need to identify a different institution for a PhD or PsyD track in marriage and family therapy.

Questions to Ask Yourself

USJ MFT Program Cost and Tuition

Understanding the full cost of a graduate MFT program is essential before you commit. The University of Saint Joseph is a private institution, so tuition tends to be higher than what you would find at a public university or one of the cheapest MFT programs available nationally. That said, private programs often offset costs through smaller class sizes, stronger clinical mentorship, and direct pipelines to local internship sites. Here is how to get an accurate picture of what you will actually pay.

Current Tuition and Credit Requirements

USJ publishes per-credit-hour rates for its graduate programs on the university's official tuition and fees page, and these rates can change from one academic year to the next. The MFT program requires a specific number of graduate credits to complete, so multiplying the posted per-credit rate by the total credits gives you a baseline estimate of tuition alone. Because USJ is a private school, there is no in-state versus out-of-state tuition distinction, which simplifies the calculation but also means every student pays the same rate. Visit the tuition page directly to confirm the figures for the 2025, 2026 or 2026, 2027 academic year, as rates published online may lag behind the latest board-approved schedule.

Fees That May Not Appear on the Main Tuition Page

Beyond tuition, graduate counseling students should budget for additional program-specific charges. These can include technology fees, practicum placement fees, liability insurance requirements, and course materials. The USJ graduate catalog and the MFT program page often list these supplemental costs separately. Contacting the program coordinator or the registrar's office is the most reliable way to get an itemized breakdown before you enroll.

Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Loan Options

USJ's financial aid office is your starting point for federal loan eligibility, institutional grants, and any merit-based scholarships designated for graduate counseling students. Steps worth taking:

• Complete the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize federal aid eligibility.
• Ask the financial aid office specifically about graduate assistantships or tuition remission opportunities within the counseling department.
• Search for external funding through professional organizations such as the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), which periodically offers scholarships and research grants to MFT students.
• Explore employer tuition reimbursement if you are already working in a behavioral health or social services role.

Assessing Return on Investment

Tuition is only one side of the equation. To determine whether USJ's cost makes financial sense for you, compare it against realistic earning potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov) publishes annual salary data for marriage and family therapists at both the national and state levels. Connecticut's cost of living is above average, but median MFT salaries in the state also tend to run higher than the national figure, which can improve your payback timeline. Run the numbers: divide estimated total program cost by the salary bump you expect after licensure, and factor in how quickly you can begin accruing supervised clinical hours toward your LMFT while still in the program.

The bottom line is that no single tuition figure tells the whole story. Verify current rates on USJ's website, contact the financial aid office early, and weigh the total investment against Connecticut-specific salary data before making your decision.

Curriculum, Practicum Hours, and Specializations

The University of Saint Joseph's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy is a 60-credit program designed to be completed in approximately 24 to 36 months, depending on whether you attend full time or part time.¹ The curriculum aligns with COAMFTE accreditation standards, which means coursework covers the foundational and advanced competencies the field requires for independent clinical practice.

Core Coursework

While specific course titles and sequencing can shift from year to year, COAMFTE-accredited programs like USJ's are built around a predictable set of core areas:

• Family systems theory: Models such as structural, strategic, Bowenian, and narrative therapy.
• Human development: Lifespan perspectives on individuals, couples, and families.
• Ethics and professional identity: Legal responsibilities, AAMFT ethics code, and scope of practice.
• Research methods: Evaluating clinical evidence and applying it in therapeutic settings.
• Psychopathology and diagnosis: DSM-based assessment within a relational framework.
• Diversity and social justice: Cultural competency across race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomic contexts.

For the most current list of required and elective courses, consult the University of Saint Joseph graduate catalog, which is published each academic year.²

Practicum and Supervised Clinical Hours

Clinical training is a cornerstone of any COAMFTE-accredited program. USJ students accumulate supervised direct-client contact hours through a combination of on-campus clinic work and external internship placements. The program's student handbook typically specifies the exact number of face-to-face client hours and supervision hours required before graduation. If that document is not posted online, contact the MFT department directly for precise figures.

To locate external internship sites, review USJ's practicum manual or reach out to the clinical coordinator. Programs of this size often maintain partnerships with community mental health agencies, hospital systems, and private practices across Connecticut, giving students exposure to a range of clinical populations. For a point of comparison, you can review how Antioch University New England MFT program structures its clinical training at a similarly sized New England institution.

Specializations and Electives

Not every COAMFTE program offers formal specialization tracks, and published details about concentration options at USJ can be limited. Before applying, ask the admissions office or program director whether elective coursework allows you to focus on areas such as child and adolescent therapy, trauma-informed care, or medical family therapy. Even without a named track, elective choices and practicum site selection can shape a meaningful area of emphasis.

Where to Verify Curriculum Details

The two most reliable sources for up-to-date program information are USJ's official MFT program page and the graduate catalog.² For broader context on what COAMFTE accreditation requires of a curriculum, the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy publishes accreditation standards that outline expected educational outcomes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also provides useful background on licensing requirements and career outlook for marriage and family therapists nationally, which can help you evaluate whether a program's training model prepares you for the specific license you plan to pursue.

USJ MFT Admissions Requirements

Getting into the University of Saint Joseph's Marriage and Family Therapy program requires a focused but straightforward application.¹ Below is a breakdown of what you need to prepare, what deadlines to watch, and what the university expects from competitive applicants.

What You Need to Apply

USJ's MFT admissions package includes the following components:

• Bachelor's degree: A completed undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution is required. While the degree does not need to be in psychology or counseling, some foundational coursework in the behavioral or social sciences may strengthen your application.
• Official transcripts: You must submit transcripts from every college or university you have attended.
• Two letters of recommendation: USJ asks for two professional or academic references. Ideally, at least one should come from a faculty member or supervisor who can speak to your readiness for graduate-level clinical work.
• Personal statement: A written statement of purpose is required. Use it to articulate why you are drawn to the MFT field, what experiences have shaped your interest, and how USJ's program fits your professional goals.
• Resume or CV: Submit a current resume that highlights relevant work, volunteer, or research experience.
• Application fee: A $50 non-refundable application fee accompanies your submission.

GRE Policy

This is one of the most common questions prospective students ask. The University of Saint Joseph maintains a test-optional admissions policy, meaning the GRE is not required for admission to the MFT program.² If you have strong scores and want to include them, you may, but applicants will not be penalized for omitting standardized test results. This is a meaningful advantage for career changers or working adults who would rather invest their time and money elsewhere in the application process. For context, many COAMFTE-accredited master's in marriage and family therapy programs have moved in this same direction, so USJ's policy is well within the norm.

GPA Expectations and Prerequisites

USJ does not publicly list a rigid minimum GPA cutoff for the MFT program. That said, most competitive applicants to COAMFTE-accredited master's programs nationally hold at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. If your GPA falls below that threshold, a compelling personal statement, strong references, and relevant professional experience can all work in your favor. There are no formally stated prerequisite courses, though a background in psychology, human development, or a related discipline is generally helpful.

Deadlines, Interviews, and Cohort Starts

USJ's MFT program typically admits students for a fall start. Prospective applicants should check USJ's graduate admissions page for the most current priority and final deadline dates, as these can shift from year to year.² Some COAMFTE-accredited programs, including USJ's, may incorporate an interview as part of the evaluation process. Being prepared to discuss your clinical interests and commitment to the MFT profession during a brief interview, whether in person or virtual, is a smart move.

If you are considering applying mid-cycle, contact USJ's admissions office directly to ask about any rolling review or waitlist options. Programs of this size sometimes have flexibility depending on cohort capacity.

Online and Flexible Learning Options at USJ

If you are searching for a fully online MFT program, the University of Saint Joseph's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy is not it. The program is delivered on campus at USJ's West Hartford, Connecticut location. That said, understanding why this is the case, and what scheduling flexibility does exist, will help you decide whether USJ can still work for your life.

Why USJ's MFT Program Is On Campus

COAMFTE accreditation standards place heavy emphasis on direct clinical training, live supervision, and face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers. USJ operates an on-site training clinic where students see real clients under close faculty oversight, a model that is difficult to replicate through a screen. Connecticut's own practicum supervision standards reinforce this: the state expects that a significant portion of your supervised clinical hours occur under conditions where a supervisor can observe sessions in real time. These requirements, combined with the program's cohort-based learning structure, make a fully remote format impractical without compromising the quality that earns and maintains COAMFTE accreditation.

Flexibility Features That Do Exist

While the program is campus-based, USJ has historically built its schedule around working adults. Features to look for include:

• Evening course scheduling: Most classes meet in the late afternoon or evening, allowing students who work during the day to attend.
• Part-time enrollment: Students who cannot commit to a full-time course load may be able to extend their timeline, though this should be confirmed directly with the program.
• Summer practicum options: Clinical hours can sometimes be concentrated during summer terms, giving students more room during the regular academic year.

What If You Need a Remote Option?

Across the country, a small but growing number of COAMFTE-accredited programs offer hybrid or predominantly online formats. These programs typically still require students to complete clinical practicum hours in person at approved sites near where they live. If geography or scheduling makes commuting to West Hartford unrealistic, you may want to explore those hybrid alternatives. Connecticut applicants who prefer to stay in-state could also compare what the Fairfield University MFT program offers in terms of format and scheduling. Keep in mind, however, that fully online COAMFTE-accredited programs remain uncommon precisely because of the clinical training demands the credential requires. Any program promising a completely remote path to licensure warrants careful scrutiny.

For students who can attend classes in the Hartford area, USJ's on-campus format is not a limitation. It is a feature that ensures you graduate with the depth of supervised clinical experience that employers and licensing boards expect.

Connecticut LMFT Licensure Pathway After USJ

Graduating from USJ's COAMFTE-accredited MFT program satisfies the educational foundation for Connecticut licensure and supports multi-state portability. Here is the step-by-step path from degree completion to a fully licensed practice.

Career Outcomes, Salary, and Whether the Cost Makes Sense

Graduating from a COAMFTE-accredited program positions you well for licensure and employment, but the real question is whether the financial investment translates into a viable career. Here is what the data suggests for USJ graduates entering the marriage and family therapy workforce.

National and Connecticut Salary Landscape

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national median annual wage for marriage and family therapists was approximately $63,780 as of 2024.¹ Connecticut typically pays above the national median for this occupation, reflecting the state's higher cost of living and strong demand for behavioral health providers. While program-specific earnings data for USJ graduates is not currently published, early-career MFTs in Connecticut can reasonably expect salaries that outpace the national figure, particularly in the greater Hartford corridor and other population-dense areas of the state.

If USJ's total program cost falls roughly in the $45,000 to $55,000 range (a realistic estimate based on credit requirements and published per-credit rates), a graduate earning at or above the national median could recoup that investment within a relatively short window, especially when factoring in steady salary growth that comes with post-licensure experience and the ability to move into private practice.

Job Growth and Local Demand

The BLS projects 13 percent job growth for marriage and family therapists over the coming decade, well above the average for all occupations, with an estimated 9,800 new positions and roughly 7,700 annual openings nationwide.¹ For a broader look at the marriage and family therapist job outlook, those numbers reflect a profession with durable demand. Connecticut adds several demand accelerators on top of that national trend:

• Insurance parity laws: Connecticut's strong mental health parity legislation requires insurers to cover MFT services on equal footing with other medical care, expanding the pool of clients who can afford therapy.
• Workforce shortages: The state has documented behavioral health workforce gaps, particularly in underserved and rural communities, which translates into reliable hiring demand for newly licensed therapists.
• Population density: Connecticut's compact geography and relatively high population density mean that clinicians can build a full caseload without the geographic challenges faced by MFTs in more rural states.

Licensure Portability and Exam Preparation

USJ does not currently publish AMFTRB national exam pass rates, so prospective students should ask the program directly for the most recent figures. That said, completing a COAMFTE-accredited degree is one of the strongest factors in both exam readiness and multi-state licensure portability. Because most state licensing boards recognize COAMFTE accreditation as meeting their educational requirements, USJ graduates who relocate or wish to practice across state lines will generally find the credentialing process smoother than graduates of non-accredited programs.

Does the Investment Pencil Out?

For most students, the math is encouraging. A total program cost in the mid-five figures, set against a median salary that starts above $60,000 nationally (and likely higher in Connecticut) and a job market projected to grow significantly, represents a reasonable return on investment. The calculus becomes even more favorable if you factor in the earning potential of private practice after accruing licensure hours, where experienced MFTs routinely earn well above the median. Students who take advantage of available financial aid, graduate assistantships, or employer tuition assistance can further compress the payback timeline.

How University of Saint Joseph MFT Compares

Choosing the right MFT program means weighing accreditation, cost, format, and career outcomes against realistic alternatives. Here is how to evaluate USJ's program in context and where to find the data that matters most.

Check Salary and Occupation Data First

Before committing to any tuition figure, confirm the earning potential in your target region. The Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program publishes annual median wages for marriage and family therapists broken down by state and metro area. As of the most recent data, the national median annual wage for MFTs sits near $58,000, but Connecticut salaries tend to run above the national median because of a higher cost of living and strong demand for licensed behavioral health professionals. You can also use O*NET to explore salary differentials by work setting (private practice, outpatient care centers, hospitals, and school systems) so you can model realistic post-graduation income against your total loan balance. For a broader look at marriage and family therapy career outlook, review employment projections alongside salary data.

Compare Enrollment, Completion, and Tuition Transparently

Visit each program's website directly and look for published graduation rates, time-to-completion averages, and placement statistics. Not every school reports these figures the same way, so focus on apples-to-apples metrics: total credit hours required, per-credit tuition, and any mandatory fees. USJ's 60-credit master's program is a useful benchmark. Compare it against a lower-cost public university option (often priced significantly below private school rates) and a higher-profile private institution (which may charge a premium for brand recognition or research opportunities). The table below offers a generalized framework.

• Lower-cost public archetype: Typically 48 to 60 credits, lower per-credit cost, limited scheduling flexibility, strong regional employer connections.
• USJ (private, COAMFTE-accredited): 60 credits, moderate-to-high tuition, small cohort model, deep clinical training network in Connecticut.
• Higher-brand private archetype: 60-plus credits, premium tuition, broader national reputation, potentially more competitive admissions.

Gauge Program Reputation Through AAMFT and COAMFTE

Employer perception in the MFT field is heavily influenced by COAMFTE accreditation status, which USJ holds. Review the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) directory to confirm a program's current accreditation level and any conditions attached. Accredited programs typically enjoy smoother licensure reciprocity across states, and many employers and clinical supervisors view COAMFTE credentials as a baseline quality signal. If a competing program lacks COAMFTE accreditation, that gap can affect your licensure timeline and geographic mobility, factors that deserve as much weight as sticker price when you compare options.

Should You Apply to USJ's MFT Program?

Choosing the right MFT program means matching your learning style, budget, and career goals to the program's strengths. Here is a clear verdict to help you decide whether the University of Saint Joseph is the right fit.

Frequently Asked Questions About USJ's MFT Program

Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about the University of Saint Joseph MFT program. For deeper detail on any topic, explore the relevant sections earlier in this article on marriagefamilytherapist.org.

Is the University of Saint Joseph MFT program COAMFTE-accredited?

Yes. The master's program in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Saint Joseph holds accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). This accreditation signals that the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and clinical training meet national standards, which can streamline the licensure process in Connecticut and many other states.

How much does the USJ MFT program cost?

Tuition is charged on a per credit basis at graduate rates set by the University of Saint Joseph. Total estimated cost depends on the number of credits required and any applicable fees. Prospective students should confirm current tuition rates directly with the university's financial aid office, as figures may be updated annually. Federal financial aid, scholarships, and graduate assistantships may help offset costs.

What are the admissions requirements for University of Saint Joseph MFT?

Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, official transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a current resume. A competitive undergraduate GPA is expected. Some applicants may be asked to complete a supplemental interview. Check the program's admissions page for the most current requirements and deadlines.

Is the University of Saint Joseph MFT program available online?

The USJ MFT program is primarily delivered on campus in West Hartford, Connecticut. Because COAMFTE accreditation requires substantial supervised clinical hours at approved practicum sites, fully online completion is not available. Some coursework may incorporate hybrid or online elements, but students should plan on regular in person attendance for both classes and clinical training.

How long does it take to complete the MFT program at University of Saint Joseph?

Most students complete the master's program in approximately two to three years of full time study. The timeline includes coursework and the required clinical practicum hours. Part time enrollment may extend the duration. Students should work with an academic advisor to map out a schedule that accounts for both classroom and supervised clinical requirements.

Does the USJ MFT program lead to LMFT licensure in Connecticut?

Yes. The program is designed to meet Connecticut's educational and clinical training requirements for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) status. After graduating, candidates must accumulate additional post-degree supervised hours, pass the national MFT licensing examination administered by the AMFTRB, and apply through the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Does USJ require the GRE for MFT admission?

As of the most recent admissions cycle, the University of Saint Joseph does not require GRE scores for admission to the MFT program. Admissions decisions rely on academic transcripts, professional experience, letters of recommendation, and the personal statement. Applicants should verify the current policy with the admissions office, as requirements can change from year to year.