Best Master's Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT)

Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy provides a comprehensive graduate program designed to cultivate advanced mental health counseling expertise. This hybrid program equips students with specialized skills in therapeutic interventions, diagnostic techniques, and evidence-based counseling strategies. Students receive rigorous training that prepares them for professional licensure, focusing on addressing complex interpersonal dynamics and supporting individuals, couples, and families. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience and professional development, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions in mental health counseling environments.

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

Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy with a Neuroscience and Psychophysiology concentration offers a distinctive, research-informed clinical training experience. As the only COAMFTE-accredited MA-MFT program in Iowa, it provides flexible evening and online learning tailored for working professionals. The program's neuroscience-based curriculum integrates advanced clinical skills development with practical experiences at the on-site Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic. Students explore cutting-edge approaches to understanding mental health through a comprehensive systems perspective, preparing them to become innovative, research-driven therapists specializing in neuroscience-informed therapeutic interventions.

• 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

Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy with a Leadership and Social Justice concentration delivers an innovative, flexible program designed for aspiring mental health professionals. The COAMFTE-accredited degree combines neuroscience-based training with a commitment to social justice, offering evening and online classes in adaptable 5- and 10-week course blocks. Students gain advanced clinical skills through hands-on experiences at the Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic, developing a deep understanding of systemic approaches to mental health. The program emphasizes compassionate, research-informed practice that addresses complex social dynamics and promotes holistic healing.

• 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

Mount Mercy University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy with an Advanced Couples Therapy concentration provides a transformative educational pathway for mental health professionals. The COAMFTE-accredited program uniquely integrates systemic approaches with neuroscience insights, specifically focusing on advanced couples therapy techniques. Designed for working professionals, the flexible curriculum features night classes, online options, and intensive residential sessions. Students develop sophisticated clinical skills through hands-on practicum experiences at the on-site Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic, positioning graduates as innovative, research-informed therapists specializing in complex relationship dynamics and therapeutic interventions.

• 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

Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy offers a comprehensive educational pathway for aspiring therapists seeking specialized training. The COAMFTE-accredited program provides an immersive 60-credit curriculum completed in approximately 33 months, enabling students to explore diverse therapeutic modalities including Child and Adolescent Therapy, Medical Family Therapy, and Trauma Treatment. Students benefit from competitive $799 per credit tuition, extensive internship opportunities with 100+ supervised hours, and a Christ-centered learning environment that prepares graduates for national licensure exams. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals while delivering rigorous clinical preparation.

• 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

Focusing on Medical Family Therapy Treatment of Trauma, Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy provides specialized training for mental health professionals. This COAMFTE-accredited program delivers an advanced 60-credit curriculum designed to equip students with sophisticated intervention strategies for complex medical and trauma-related family dynamics. Competitive $799 per credit tuition, 100+ hours of supervised internship, and a flexible online format enable students to balance professional development with academic pursuits. Graduates are comprehensively prepared for national licensing examinations and diverse clinical practice 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

Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy with Child and Adolescent Therapy concentration offers targeted training for professionals dedicated to youth mental health. The COAMFTE-accredited program provides a comprehensive 60-credit curriculum focusing on developmental psychology, family systems, and specialized pediatric therapeutic techniques. With flexible online learning, students gain practical skills through 100+ internship supervision hours, preparing them to address complex childhood and adolescent psychological challenges. Competitive $799 per credit tuition and multiple start dates support working professionals seeking advanced 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

Specializing in Therapy with Military Families, Abilene Christian University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy delivers targeted training for professionals serving military personnel and their families. The COAMFTE-accredited 60-credit program equips students with evidence-based therapeutic approaches addressing unique military family dynamics, trauma, and resilience. With a flexible online format and $799 per credit tuition, students complete comprehensive clinical training, including 100+ hours of supervised internship. The Christ-centered educational approach emphasizes cultural competence, systemic understanding, and specialized intervention strategies for military community 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

John Brown University's Master of Science in Counseling delivers an exceptional Marriage and Family Therapy program, distinguished by its CACREP accreditation and comprehensive training approach. The 60-credit hybrid program prepares professionals through a faith-integrated curriculum, offering extensive clinical preparation and multiple Arkansas campus locations. Students benefit from low student-to-faculty ratios, rigorous academic training, and practical skills development. With an impressive 97% post-graduation employment rate, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, evening and weekend scheduling, and a strong foundation in mental health counseling techniques.

• 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

John Brown University's Play Therapy concentration within the Master of Science in Counseling provides specialized training for mental health professionals seeking advanced pediatric and developmental counseling skills. This comprehensive program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experiences, emphasizing innovative therapeutic approaches for working with children. Students receive exceptional preparation through experienced faculty, flexible learning formats, and a robust 100% practicum placement rate. The curriculum focuses on developing nuanced intervention strategies, ethical practice, and comprehensive understanding of child psychological dynamics.

• 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

John Brown University's Adventure Therapy concentration in the Master of Science in Counseling offers a unique, experiential approach to mental health professional training. This innovative program integrates outdoor and active therapeutic techniques with traditional counseling methodologies, preparing students for diverse clinical settings. With a 60-credit curriculum emphasizing personal growth and professional development, students gain advanced skills in alternative therapeutic interventions. The program's holistic educational model combines rigorous academic training, faith-based perspectives, and hands-on clinical experiences to produce highly adaptable mental health professionals.

• 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

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 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, equipping graduates for impactful careers in diverse mental health settings. Highlights include specialized training in medical family therapy and substance use disorder treatment, alongside a strong emphasis on integrated behavioral healthcare.

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

The Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program at Oregon Institute of Technology, with a concentration in Substance Use Disorder Treatment, is a hybrid program that prepares students to become compassionate and skilled therapists. It focuses on rural mental health, multicultural competence, and integrated healthcare, offering advanced clinical skills and trauma-informed care expertise. The program emphasizes cultural sensitivity, ethical practice, and practical training in substance use disorder treatment, preparing graduates to serve diverse communities effectively.

• 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

Oregon Institute of Technology's hybrid Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program, concentrating on Integrated Behavioral Healthcare, is tailored for students aiming to specialize in rural mental health, medical family therapy, and substance use disorders. The program fosters comprehensive clinical skills through a multicultural lens, incorporating trauma-informed approaches and integrated behavioral healthcare practices. It emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competence, and professional development, preparing graduates to make significant contributions in various community mental health settings.

• 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

California Lutheran University's MS in Counseling Psychology (MFT) is a hybrid program designed to equip students with the skills necessary for licensure and professional practice in marriage and family therapy. The curriculum aligns with AAMFT core competencies and is approved by the Board of Behavioral Sciences, ensuring graduates meet state licensure requirements. With a focus on therapeutic techniques, ethics, and practical skills, the program prepares students for a career in mental health counseling, offering comprehensive training to serve individuals, couples, and families effectively.

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

The Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy at California Lutheran University specializes in Psychological Trauma. This hybrid program provides advanced clinical training through a 12-month practicum in community counseling centers, emphasizing systemic understanding, cultural competence, and ethical practice. Students can explore trauma, attachment theory, and other specializations, benefiting from a cohort-based model and achieving high licensure exam pass rates. The program offers 750 clinical training hours, fostering professional identity development and diverse therapeutic approaches.

• 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

California Lutheran University's Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Marital and Family Therapy focuses on Attachment Theory. This hybrid program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experience, including a 12-month practicum in community counseling centers. Students develop expertise in systemic therapy approaches, cultural competence, and ethical practice, with opportunities to specialize in trauma and attachment theory. The program boasts high licensing exam pass rates and offers up to 750 clinical hours, preparing graduates for successful careers in therapy.

• 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

Azusa Pacific University offers a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy, designed to prepare students for compassionate counseling roles. This hybrid program blends theoretical and practical learning, incorporating theology and ethics into its curriculum. With a Christ-centered approach, it aims to equip graduates with the skills needed for transformative therapeutic interventions in individuals, couples, and families. Highlights include an interdisciplinary curriculum and a strong emphasis on professional counseling preparation.

• 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

The Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology at Azusa Pacific University, with a concentration in Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) Option, is tailored for those seeking a comprehensive, Christ-centered counseling education. This hybrid program integrates rigorous academic training with studies in theology, ethics, and psychotherapy, offering a holistic foundation in counseling techniques. It prepares graduates to address complex interpersonal dynamics and support mental health across diverse populations, emphasizing professional counseling skills and a Christ-centered perspective.

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

Azusa Pacific University's Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, featuring a concentration in Gottman Couples Therapy Level 1 Certificate, is designed for aspiring counselors. This hybrid program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, focusing on interdisciplinary studies in theology, ethics, and psychotherapy. It prepares students for meaningful impacts in mental health counseling, supported by experienced faculty and a curriculum that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth, all within a Christ-centered framework.

• Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
• Interdisciplinary theological approach
• Professional counseling emphasis
• Comprehensive psychotherapy training
• Christ-centered counseling perspective

Drexel University's Master of Family Therapy program, with a concentration in Trauma and Addiction, is a 90-credit hybrid program designed to equip students with the skills to address complex family dynamics and mental health issues. This COAMFTE-accredited program emphasizes evidence-based practices, offering specialized training in trauma and addiction within a systemic framework. Students complete a clinical practicum, accumulating at least 500 direct client hours, including telehealth practice, preparing them for Pennsylvania MFT licensure and diverse career paths in mental health.

• 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

Focusing on LGBT and Specific Populations, Drexel University's Master of Family Therapy is a 90-credit hybrid program that prepares students for advanced practice in family therapy. This COAMFTE-accredited program combines campus and online learning, offering specialized training in working with LGBT communities and addressing trauma and addiction. With a requirement of 500 clinical hours and access to an on-campus clinical simulation center, graduates are well-prepared for licensure and careers in various settings, including healthcare and private practice.

• 90-credit Master's degree
• COAMFTE-accredited program
• Full-time campus and online courses
• Trauma and addiction focus
• Minimum 500 clinical hours required
• Pennsylvania MFT licensure eligible
• Specialized training with LGBT populations
• Interprofessional healthcare training
• Multiple therapy approach models
• On-campus clinical simulation center

Yeshiva University's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy is a rigorous, 60-credit program located in NYC, designed to prepare students for licensure and dynamic careers in therapy. It offers comprehensive training in couples therapy, family dynamics, and crisis intervention, alongside diverse practicum experiences. With expert faculty, extensive networking, and a 100% employment rate post-graduation, students are well-equipped for success. The program includes subspecialties like children and adolescent counseling, making it a standout choice for aspiring therapists.

• 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

Focusing on couples and family crisis counseling, Yeshiva University's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy provides in-depth training in addressing complex family dynamics and crisis situations. This 60-credit, licensure-qualifying program in NYC offers extensive practical experience through diverse field placements. Students benefit from a high employment rate, career networking, and the opportunity to specialize, preparing them for impactful careers in mental health counseling.

• 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

Specializing in child and adolescent therapy, Yeshiva University's M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy offers a 60-credit program that prepares students for licensure and careers in mental health. Located in NYC, the program emphasizes practical experience through field placements and provides a curriculum focused on therapeutic interventions for younger populations. With a 100% employment rate and multiple subspecialty tracks, graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the field.

• 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

Fairfield University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy is a 60-credit program designed to equip students with the skills needed to become effective therapists. The program emphasizes clinical expertise through coursework and hands-on training, requiring 500 direct clinical contact hours and 100 hours of supervision. Flexible scheduling allows students to complete the program in 3-6 years, with paths tailored to individual goals. Highlights include a focus on Queer and Trans Mental Health, diverse therapeutic interventions, and a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0.

• 60-credit comprehensive MFT program
• 500 clinical contact hours required
• 3-6 year completion timeframe
• Personalized study progression
• 100 hours professional supervision
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• Queer and Trans Mental Health concentration
• Professional identity focus
• Diverse therapeutic intervention training
• $215 one-time TEVERA fee

Specializing in School-Based Marriage and Family Therapy, Fairfield University's program prepares graduates for therapeutic roles in educational settings. It covers child and adolescent development, learning theories, and school system interventions, offering Connecticut State Board of Education certification. The program requires 21 credit hours and 300 practicum hours, with training in education law and bilingual options. Praxis Core exam and fingerprinting are among the requirements for this COAMFTE-accredited program.

• COAMFTE-accredited MFT program
• First state school MFT certification
• 21 total credit hours
• 300 school-based practicum hours
• Multiple certification pathways
• Specialized education law training
• Bilingual education options
• Interpersonal skills assessment
• Praxis Core exam requirement
• Fingerprinting background check

With a concentration in Queer and Trans Mental Health, Fairfield University's Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy focuses on systemic approaches and clinical competence. The 60-credit program offers flexibility with a 3-6 year completion timeline, requiring 500 clinical hours and 100 supervision hours. It emphasizes social justice, diversity, and multiple therapy techniques, catering to full-time and part-time students with a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0.

• 60-credit comprehensive MFT program
• 3-6 year completion timeline
• Minimum 500 clinical hours required
• 100 hours of clinical supervision
• Personalized study program
• Multiple therapy intervention techniques
• Social justice and diversity focus
• Queer and Trans Mental Health concentration
• $215 TEVERA placement fee
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• Full-time and part-time options

Jacksonville University's Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Couples, Marriage, and Family Counseling is a CACREP-accredited hybrid program. Spanning two years, this 60-credit curriculum is tailored for those aiming to meet Florida's licensure requirements for Mental Health Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists. The program stands out for its 800-hour clinical field experience and cohort model, offering personalized learning. Ideal for working professionals, it combines rigorous academics with flexible scheduling. 'Requires GRE' for applicants with lower GPAs, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to marriage and family therapy.

• CACREP accredited program
• Full-time, 2-year 60-credit program
• Hybrid learning format
• Florida licensure preparation
• Marriage and Family Counseling emphasis
• 800-hour clinical experience
• Application deadline: February 15, 2025
• Requires 3 recommendation letters
• Weekly class attendance
• Non-degree course options available

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Jacksonville University is a hybrid, CACREP-accredited program designed to prepare students for Florida licensure as LMHC/LMFT. This two-year, 60-credit program includes an 800-hour clinical field experience, blending online coursework with weekly in-person sessions. It offers a Marriage and Family Counseling emphasis, catering to aspiring professionals seeking flexible yet rigorous training. With an optional GRE/GMAT for those with lower GPAs, the program focuses on developing skilled counselors ready for diverse clinical settings. 'No GRE Required' for most applicants, highlighting accessibility and inclusivity.

• CACREP accredited program
• Two-year, 60-credit program
• Hybrid learning format
• Marriage and Family Counseling emphasis
• Meets Florida LMHC/LMFT licensure requirements
• 800-hour clinical field experience
• Final application deadline: February 15, 2025
• Applicants need transcripts, recommendations
• Optional GRE/GMAT for low GPA
• Weekly in-person class sessions