No-GRE Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degrees
The path to becoming a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) is now more accessible than ever with No-GRE MFT degree programs. These programs eliminate the requirement for standardized testing, focusing instead on academic achievements, professional experience, and personal statements. Whether you’re pursuing a master’s, post-master’s certificate, or doctorate, No-GRE programs offer flexible admission routes while maintaining high educational and clinical standards.
In this guide
2025 No-GRE Marriage & Family Therapy (DMFT) Programs
Finding the right No-GRE Marriage & Family Therapy (DMFT) program can be tough. At marriagefamilytherapist.org, we make it easier. We rank programs to help you choose the best one for your career. Our list saves you time and stress. We focus on quality and what matters to you. Check out our rankings to start your journey today. Learn how we rank programs here.
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 provides comprehensive training for aspiring mental health professionals seeking transformative counseling expertise. This advanced graduate program develops specialized skills in therapeutic interventions, diagnostic techniques, and evidence-based counseling strategies. Students learn to address complex interpersonal dynamics and support individuals, couples, and families through a rigorous curriculum designed to meet professional licensure requirements. The program prepares graduates to excel in diverse mental health counseling settings, emphasizing compassionate and professional clinical practice.
- 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
Mount Mercy University's Marriage and Family Therapy program uniquely integrates neuroscience and psychophysiology, offering a cutting-edge approach to mental health professional training. As the only COAMFTE-accredited MA-MFT program in Iowa, it provides flexible evening and online learning tailored for working professionals. Students benefit from personalized, research-informed clinical training, including hands-on experiences at the on-site Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic. The program's innovative curriculum emphasizes systems approaches and neuroscience foundations, preparing advanced clinicians with comprehensive skills in understanding complex psychological dynamics.
- 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
Mount Mercy University's Marriage and Family Therapy program champions leadership and social justice within mental health professional training. The COAMFTE-accredited degree offers a pioneering curriculum blending systemic approaches with neuroscience insights. Designed for working professionals, the program provides flexible learning through evening and online classes in compact 5- and 10-week blocks. Students develop advanced clinical skills through practical experiences at the on-site Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic, emerging as research-informed, compassionate therapists equipped to address complex mental health challenges with a social justice perspective.
- 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 Marriage and Family Therapy program specializes in advanced couples therapy, offering a transformative educational experience for mental health professionals. The COAMFTE-accredited curriculum uniquely synthesizes systemic approaches with neuroscience insights, preparing students to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics. Tailored for working professionals, the program features flexible night classes, online options, and intensive residential sessions. Students gain advanced clinical expertise through hands-on practicum experiences at the on-site Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic, developing innovative, research-informed therapeutic strategies specifically focused on couples counseling.
- 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
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 is tailored for professionals seeking licensure, with a curriculum grounded in Integrative Systemic Therapy. This COAMFTE-accredited program offers both online and on-campus learning options, featuring in-person clinical training near students' communities. With no GRE required and four annual cohort starts, the program is accessible and flexible. Rolling admissions and a licensure-focused curriculum prepare students to tackle complex relational issues, making it an ideal choice for aspiring therapists committed to systemic client care.
- 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 offers an online Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy designed for those aiming to become licensed therapists. This COAMFTE-accredited program emphasizes a research-driven curriculum and intensive clinical training, enabling students to graduate in as few as 21 months. Unique features include no GRE requirement, small class sizes, and a focus on multicultural competence. Students complete 400 hours of clinical fieldwork, including 125 relational clinical hours, preparing them to address diverse family and couple dynamics effectively. The program's Integrative Systemic Therapeutic Model and immersive experiences ensure graduates are well-equipped for professional practice.
- 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
Hofstra University
Hempstead, NY - Private 4-year - hofstra.edu
Master's - Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hofstra University offers a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy designed for those seeking to make a difference in the lives of couples and families. This 54-credit, campus-based program stands out for its no GRE requirement, making it accessible to a broader range of students. It combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experience, including an internship at the university's Counseling and Mental Health Professions Clinic. The curriculum is tailored to meet New York state licensure requirements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the field. With sessions available in fall, spring, and summer, the program offers flexibility alongside a commitment to practice-based learning and faculty support.
- 54-credit in-person degree
- No GRE required
- On-campus clinic internship
- NY state licensure preparation
- Fall, spring, summer sessions
- 22% job growth projected
- Practice-based courses offered
- Dedicated faculty guidance
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy designed for those aiming to make a significant difference in family systems. This COAMFTE-accredited program stands out for its hybrid format, blending online coursework with in-person experiences to prepare students for Texas state licensure. Emphasizing a systems approach, the curriculum equips graduates with the skills to address complex family dynamics effectively. Notably, the program boasts a 100% pass rate on national exams and does not require the GRE for admission, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants. With options for thesis research and a typical completion time of three years, students are well-prepared for professional success.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 3-Year Typical Completion
- 100% National Exam Pass Rate
- No GRE Required
- Thesis Research Option
- Texas State Licensure Prep
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Fall Application Deadline: Jan 15
- Spring Application Deadline: Sept 1
- On-Campus Interview Required
The Chicago School at Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - thechicagoschool.edu
Master's - M.A. Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Chicago School at Los Angeles offers a Master of Arts in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy, designed for those eager to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families. This COAMFTE-accredited program stands out for its flexibility, offering both two and three-year completion options, and the convenience of online and in-person learning formats. With a focus on systemic therapy, students gain hands-on experience through 300 clinical training hours, preparing them for diverse career settings. The program is accessible with a bachelor's degree, accepts transfer credits, and notably does not require the GRE, making it an attractive option for aspiring therapists.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- Two or Three Year Options
- No GRE Required
- Per Credit Tuition: $1,409
- Anaheim, LA, Online Campuses
- 300 Clinical Training Hours
- Multiple Career Settings
- Bachelor's Degree Flexible
- Transfer Credits Accepted
Doctorate - Psy.D. Marital and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
For advanced practitioners, The Chicago School at Los Angeles presents a Psy.D. in Marital and Family Therapy, a post-master's doctoral program that deepens expertise in systemic therapy. This 60-credit hour program follows a practitioner-scholar model, blending rigorous academic coursework with comprehensive dissertation research and culturally competent clinical training. Aimed at those with a license-eligible master's degree, it emphasizes ethical practice and professional development without leading to California MFT licensure. Located in Los Angeles and Anaheim, the program is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their therapeutic skills and knowledge in family systems.
- Post-Master's Doctoral Program
- 60 credit hours total
- Practitioner-scholar model
- Culturally competent training
- Comprehensive dissertation required
- Requires license-eligible master's
- Graduate GPA 3.0+ recommended
- Los Angeles - Anaheim campus
- No California MFT licensure path
California State University-Long Beach
Long Beach, CA - Public 4-Year - csulb.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
California State University-Long Beach presents a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with a focus on Marriage & Family Therapy, designed for aspiring therapists seeking a blend of academic rigor and practical experience. This 65-unit hybrid program stands out for its no GRE requirement, offering flexibility with 2 to 2.5-year completion options. Students benefit from an on-site clinic for real-world training, preparing them for licensure as LMFTs or LPCCs. The curriculum emphasizes trauma, family systems, and multicultural counseling, supported by a faculty experienced in diverse clinical settings. Accredited by WASC and approved by the Board of Behavioral Sciences, graduates are well-equipped for various professional environments.
- 65-unit comprehensive program
- LMFT and LPCC licensure preparation
- No GRE required
- 2-2.5 year track options
- WASC fully accredited
- On-site clinical training
- Multicultural clinical faculty
- Live supervision experience
- Diverse community practice sites
- Board of Behavioral Sciences approved
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT - Public 4-Year - ccsu.edu
Master's - Marriage & Family Therapy, MS
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Connecticut State University offers a Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy, blending hybrid learning for flexibility. This 63-credit program is tailored for those aiming to become skilled therapists, focusing on systemic approaches to treat individuals, couples, and families. With evening classes, it suits working professionals, ensuring no GRE is needed for admission. The curriculum includes extensive clinical training and supervised practicum, aligning with Connecticut's licensure standards. Highlights include COAMFTE accreditation, a two-year supervised training, and 400 clinical training hours, all designed to prepare students for successful careers in therapy without the GMAT/GRE barrier.
- 63-credit MS program
- Flexible evening track
- No GMAT/GRE required
- COAMFTE accredited
- Two-year supervised training
- Starts every August
- Full-time study option
- Clinical counseling lab
- Financial aid available
- 400 clinical training hours
Touro University Worldwide
Los Alamitos, CA - Private 4-year - tuw.edu
Doctorate - Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT)
Concentration: Organizational Systems in MFT - Online Learning - Visit Website
Touro University Worldwide offers a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) with a concentration in Organizational Systems in MFT, tailored for licensed mental health professionals seeking leadership roles in education, research, and advanced practice. This 100% online program emphasizes trauma intervention, systemic therapy, and organizational leadership, requiring no GRE for admission. With affordable tuition at $700 per semester credit and the flexibility of 8-week course sessions, students can complete the 60-credit program in approximately three years. The program allows for the transfer of up to 6 credits and offers six start dates annually, making it accessible for working professionals. Highlights include 'No GRE Required', '100% online doctoral program', and 'WSCUC accredited'.
- 100% online doctoral program
- $700 per semester credit
- 60 total credit hours
- No GMAT/GRE required
- 3-year typical completion time
- Transfer up to 6 credits
- 6 program starts annually
- 8-week course sessions
- Two concentration options
- WSCUC accredited
- For licensed mental health clinicians
- 3.4 minimum Master's GPA
- Minimum 300 post-degree clinical experience
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Winona, MN - Private 4-year - smumn.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota provides a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, a hybrid program blending online and face-to-face learning. This COAMFTE-accredited 48-credit curriculum prepares students for Minnesota licensure, emphasizing systemic therapy, cultural diversity, and ethical practice. A standout feature is the 300-hour clinical practicum, with 150 hours dedicated to direct couple and family therapy, ensuring hands-on experience. The program welcomes applicants without GRE scores, focusing on a holistic approach to mental health treatment within family systems. With a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0, it's designed for those seeking to make a significant impact in the field of marriage and family therapy.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 48-credit Master's Degree
- 300 clinical practicum hours
- Blended learning format
- Minnesota licensure preparation
- No GRE required for admission
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Multiple contemporary issue courses
- Diverse clinical intervention training
- Face-to-face and online coursework
Converse University
Spartanburg, SC - Private 4-year - converse.edu
Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Converse University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) program stands out as the only COAMFTE-accredited MFT program in South Carolina, offering a rigorous two-year curriculum. Students engage in a 15-month clinical practicum at EMERGE Family Therapy Center, accumulating 500 client contact hours. The program requires 63 credit hours and operates on a full-time, cohort model with an average of 15 students per cohort, ensuring personalized attention. Admission does not require GRE scores, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants. The program is designed for those seeking to become culturally competent therapists, with campuses in Spartanburg and Greenville.
- Only COAMFTE-accredited MFT program in SC
- Two campus locations: Spartanburg/Greenville
- 63 total credit hours
- 15-month clinical practicum
- 500 client contact hours required
- Full-time program only
- No GRE required
- Fall semester start only
- Cohort model
- Average 15 students per cohort
Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT)
Concentration: Play Therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website
Specializing in Play Therapy, Converse University's MMFT program provides a unique focus within its COAMFTE-accredited curriculum. This two-year program includes a 15-credit clinical practicum, allowing students to apply play therapy techniques in real-world settings. With a requirement of 63 credit hours and 500 client contact hours, the program emphasizes hands-on experience and cultural competency. Small cohort sizes ensure individualized learning, and the absence of a GRE requirement facilitates access for aspiring therapists. The program is available at two campuses in Spartanburg and Greenville, offering a comprehensive education in marriage and family therapy with a specialized concentration.
- COAMFTE-accredited program
- Two campus locations: Spartanburg, Greenville
- 63 total credit hours
- 15-month clinical practicum
- 500 client contact hours
- Full-time program only
- No GRE required
- Fall semester start
- Limited assistantships available
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
What is the GRE Exam?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. Many graduate programs have traditionally required the GRE as part of their admissions process. However, for many prospective MFT students, GRE preparation can be time-consuming and costly, which is why more universities are removing this requirement in favor of a holistic admissions process.
Why Should I Choose a No-GRE MFT Program
Choosing a No-GRE MFT program offers several benefits, including:
- Simplified Admissions Process: You can focus on showcasing your academic and professional experience rather than test scores.
- Faster Application Timeline: No need to spend months preparing for the GRE, allowing you to apply sooner.
- More Inclusive Admissions: Programs evaluate candidates based on relevant experience, GPA, personal statements, and recommendations.
- No Compromise on Quality: Many No-GRE MFT programs are accredited by COAMFTE or CACREP, ensuring you meet licensure requirements after graduation.
Can I Get a No-GRE MFT Degree Online?
Yes, many universities offer fully online No-GRE MFT programs that provide flexibility for working professionals. Online programs often include:
- Asynchronous Classes: Learn at your own pace with recorded lectures and flexible deadlines.
- Virtual Clinical Training: Many programs help students secure local practicum placements, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in their own community.
- Accelerated Formats: Some online MFT programs offer accelerated courses, allowing you to complete your degree faster than traditional programs.

MFT Degree Programs
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