Massachusetts requires LMFT candidates to hold a graduate degree with specific marriage and family therapy coursework, and COAMFTE accreditation is the clearest signal that a program meets those curricular benchmarks. UMass Boston, the only public research university in Boston proper, offers graduate training in this space at tuition rates well below most private alternatives in the metro area.

The practical tension for applicants is real: lower cost matters, but so does accreditation standing. Whether UMass Boston's program currently holds full COAMFTE accreditation, how its curriculum maps to Massachusetts LMFT licensure requirements, and what clinical hours look like on the ground are questions that deserve precise answers. For students weighing affordability against credential strength, the distinction between a COAMFTE-accredited degree and an MFT-adjacent counseling program can shape years of post-graduation planning.

Is UMass Boston a Good MFT Program?

UMass Boston offers a Master of Science in Family Therapy designed to prepare graduates for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) licensure in Massachusetts.¹ It is a public university option in one of the most clinically rich metro areas in the country, which makes it worth a close look for the right candidate. That said, a critical accreditation detail shapes who this program serves best, and who should explore other paths.

Who This Program Fits Best

The ideal applicant is someone who wants to become an LMFT in Massachusetts at a public-university price point and values the flexibility of an online format. Because UMass Boston sits in a major urban hub, students gain access to a broad network of community mental health agencies, hospitals, and counseling centers for clinical placements. The university also draws a notably diverse student body, which enriches classroom discussions around culture, identity, and systemic issues central to family therapy practice.

If you plan to live and practice in Massachusetts after graduation, this program aligns well with the state's LMFT licensure requirements and can offer a more affordable route than many private alternatives in the Boston area. For a broader view of what is available in the state, see our guide to marriage and family therapy Massachusetts programs.

Key Strengths

• Public tuition rates: As a University of Massachusetts campus, the program typically costs less per credit than comparable private-university MFT degrees in the region.
• Online delivery: The M.S. in Family Therapy is offered online, giving working adults and students outside the immediate Boston area a practical way to complete coursework.¹
• Urban clinical network: Greater Boston's density of hospitals, community mental health centers, and family service agencies creates a wide range of practicum placement options.
• Diverse learning environment: UMass Boston is recognized as one of the most diverse public universities in New England, a meaningful advantage in a field where cultural competence is essential.

The Accreditation Factor You Cannot Ignore

As of the 2025-2026 academic year, UMass Boston's M.S. in Family Therapy is not accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).¹ This is the single most important detail prospective students need to understand.

Massachusetts does not require graduation from a COAMFTE-accredited program for LMFT licensure, so completing this degree can still lead to licensure within the state. However, many other states do require or strongly prefer COAMFTE accreditation when evaluating out-of-state applicants. If you anticipate relocating after graduation or want maximum flexibility to practice across state lines, the absence of COAMFTE accreditation could create real barriers.

When to Consider Alternatives

You should look at other programs if any of the following apply:

• You need COAMFTE accreditation for licensure portability to another state.
• You are uncertain where you will practice long-term and want the broadest possible credential recognition.
• You prefer a hybrid or fully on-campus experience with more structured, in-person clinical mentorship.

For students firmly rooted in Massachusetts who prioritize affordability and online convenience, UMass Boston's family therapy program is a reasonable option. For those who value interstate licensure flexibility, a COAMFTE-accredited alternative deserves serious consideration. You can browse affordable online MFT programs to compare cost-effective options that carry full COAMFTE accreditation.

COAMFTE Accreditation Status at UMass Boston

This is the single most important question prospective students ask about the UMass Boston family therapy program, and the answer requires some nuance. UMass Boston's on-campus M.S. in Family Therapy has claimed COAMFTE-accredited status on its program materials.¹ However, as of May 2026, UMass Boston does not appear in the COAMFTE Notice of Actions directory, and no evidence of current candidacy or recent accreditation action has been publicly posted by COAMFTE.² The university's separate online M.S. in Family Therapy is not COAMFTE-accredited, and COAMFTE does not currently accredit fully online programs.³ Before enrolling, you should contact both the program and COAMFTE directly to confirm the current accreditation status of the specific track you plan to enter.

UMass Boston is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which covers the institution as a whole and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.⁴

What COAMFTE Accreditation Actually Does for You

COAMFTE accreditation is the gold standard credential for marriage and family therapy graduate programs. In practical terms, it provides three advantages:

• Licensure portability: Many states streamline or fast-track LMFT applications for graduates of COAMFTE-accredited programs. If you plan to move or practice across state lines, holding a COAMFTE-backed degree can eliminate course-by-course transcript reviews.
• AAMFT membership eligibility: Clinical membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy is most straightforward for graduates of COAMFTE-accredited programs.
• Employer recognition: Hospitals, community mental health agencies, and group practices often list COAMFTE accreditation as a preferred or required credential during hiring.

Massachusetts Does Not Require COAMFTE Accreditation

Here is the good news for students who intend to stay in Massachusetts: the state does not mandate that your degree come from a COAMFTE-accredited program.³ A regionally accredited institution that delivers the required MFT coursework, clinical contact hours, and supervised experience can qualify you for LMFT licensure. UMass Boston's online M.S. in Family Therapy is designed to meet those Massachusetts-specific coursework and clinical requirements.

A Word for Students Who May Practice Elsewhere

If there is any chance you will relocate after graduation, treat the accreditation question seriously. Several states, including Utah and a handful of others, require or strongly prefer a COAMFTE-accredited degree for licensure. Graduating from a program that lacks COAMFTE accreditation could force you into additional coursework, extra supervised hours, or a lengthy review process when you apply in one of those states. For students who value maximum geographic flexibility, a confirmed COAMFTE-accredited program is the safer path. Our guide to becoming an MFT outlines how licensure requirements vary from state to state.

Before committing tuition dollars, verify accreditation status directly through the COAMFTE program directory and ask the UMass Boston admissions office for documentation.² Accreditation statuses can change between application cycles, and the distinction between "accredited," "candidate," and "not accredited" carries real consequences for your career.

UMass Boston MFT-Track Program at a Glance

Before diving into the details, here are the essential data points prospective students search for most. This snapshot covers the degree format, credit load, tuition rates, and accreditation status for the MFT track at UMass Boston.

Program Cost and Tuition at UMass Boston

Understanding the full cost of a graduate MFT program is essential before you commit. UMass Boston, as a public research university, offers tuition rates that are notably lower than many private institutions with COAMFTE-accredited programs. Here is a detailed breakdown based on the 2025, 2026 published rates.

Per-Credit Tuition Rates

For the 2025-2026 academic year, UMass Boston charges graduate students the following per-credit tuition:¹

• In-state residents: $885.50 per credit
• Out-of-state students: $1,692.30 per credit

In addition to tuition, every graduate student pays a program fee of $225.00 per semester.² Students enrolling in clinical or practicum coursework through the College of Education and Human Development should also expect a field experience fee of $215.00 per applicable semester. First-time students pay a one-time new student fee of $390.00 and a student ID fee of $75.00.³

Estimated Total Program Cost

The MFT-track program at UMass Boston requires approximately 60 credits. Using the published per-credit rates, here is an estimate of total tuition alone:

• In-state total tuition: roughly $53,130 (60 credits at $885.50)
• Out-of-state total tuition: roughly $101,538 (60 credits at $1,692.30)

When you factor in mandatory fees, including semester program fees, field experience fees across multiple practicum semesters, the new student fee, and a $200.00 graduation fee, expect to add several thousand dollars on top of those base figures.² Students who need university-sponsored health insurance will pay approximately $1,383 in the fall and $1,934 in the spring, which adds up significantly over a multi-year program.³

For context, the median total cost of a COAMFTE-accredited master's program nationally often falls between $40,000 and $80,000, varying widely by institution type. UMass Boston's in-state rate lands in the lower-to-middle range of that spectrum, making it a competitive option for Massachusetts residents. Out-of-state students should weigh whether establishing residency or exploring other public-university options might reduce the financial burden.

Financial Aid and Assistantships

UMass Boston provides several avenues to offset costs:²

• Federal loans: Graduate students are eligible for Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Federal Graduate PLUS Loans.
• Graduate assistantships: The university offers assistantship positions that include a stipend and a partial or full tuition waiver, which can dramatically reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.⁴ These positions are competitive and typically require 15 to 20 hours of work per week.
• University scholarships: UMass Boston awards merit-based and need-based scholarships to graduate students. Check directly with the financial aid office and the College of Education and Human Development for program-specific awards.
• AAMFT Foundation scholarships: MFT students nationwide can apply for scholarships through the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Foundation, which provides funding specifically for students enrolled in COAMFTE-accredited programs.

If you secure an assistantship with a full tuition waiver, your effective cost could drop to a fraction of the published rates, putting UMass Boston on par with or below many other public-university MFT programs in the region. Pursue assistantship opportunities early, as demand for these positions tends to be high.

Related Articles

Curriculum, Specializations, and Clinical Hours

UMass Boston's MS in Mental Health Counseling is a 60-credit, 18-course program designed to prepare graduates for clinical practice with individuals, couples, and families.¹ While the degree is structured around mental health counseling rather than a standalone MFT track, it includes dedicated coursework in family and couples therapy and delivers substantial clinical training that aligns with Massachusetts licensure expectations.

Core Coursework

The curriculum covers the foundational areas you would expect from a graduate counseling program with a family therapy component:

• Family systems theory and couples therapy: COUNSL 667, Counseling Families and Couples: Theories and Practice, is the program's dedicated family therapy course, covering systemic models, relational dynamics, and intervention strategies.²
• Human development: Coursework addresses lifespan development and its clinical implications.
• Psychopathology and diagnosis: Students learn diagnostic frameworks and how to apply them in diverse clinical settings.
• Ethics and professional practice: Legal, ethical, and multicultural dimensions of counseling are integrated throughout the program.
• Research methods: A clinical case study capstone requires students to synthesize evidence-based practice with real client work.²

The program also offers a concentration in Forensic Services for students interested in the intersection of mental health and the legal system. Beyond that formal track, elective options may touch on topics like multicultural counseling and substance abuse, though the catalog does not list additional named specialization tracks such as trauma or child and adolescent therapy.

Clinical Hours and Placement Structure

Clinical training is one of the program's strongest features. Students complete a total of 700 supervised clinical hours, broken down into 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship.² The internship sequence, COUNSL 699 Advanced Practice I and II (taken twice), places students in supervised settings across the greater Boston area, including community mental health centers, hospitals, and school-based programs.

These 700 hours give graduates a meaningful head start on post-degree supervised experience. However, students pursuing LMFT licensure in Massachusetts should confirm with the state licensing board exactly how many of these hours transfer toward the post-degree clinical requirement, since the program is structured for LMHC preparation rather than LMFT preparation specifically. If you are weighing the LMFT vs LPC credential, understanding these distinctions early will save time and money.

Does the Credit Count Meet LMFT Standards?

Massachusetts requires 60 graduate-level credits for LMFT licensure. The UMass Boston MS program meets that threshold at exactly 60 credits.¹ That said, because the degree is a mental health counseling program with a single family therapy course rather than a COAMFTE vs CACREP accredited MFT curriculum, prospective LMFT candidates should carefully review whether the specific content areas required by the state board (such as additional family systems and relational coursework) are fully satisfied. Some graduates may need to complete supplemental MFT-focused coursework or a post-graduate certificate to fill any gaps. Consulting the Massachusetts Board of Registration before enrolling is the most reliable way to map your path.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Admissions Requirements for UMass Boston's MFT-Track Program

Getting into UMass Boston's MFT-track program within the Mental Health Counseling MS requires a focused application, but the requirements are straightforward compared to many graduate counseling programs.¹ Here is what you need to prepare.

GPA and Academic Background

The program requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale from your bachelor's degree.² A degree in psychology, social work, or a closely related field is not formally required; however, applicants with relevant undergraduate coursework or professional experience in the behavioral health sciences will be better positioned during the review process. If your GPA falls slightly below the threshold, strong supporting materials and relevant work experience may help your case, though the 2.75 floor is the published standard.

Applicants should also have at least one year of relevant work experience.¹ This can include paid or volunteer roles in counseling, social services, education, or related human-services settings.

Required Application Materials

You will need to submit the following:

• Completed application: Filed through the UMass Boston graduate admissions portal, along with a $75 application fee. Fee waivers are available for veterans, McNair scholars, UMass Boston alumni, and other qualifying applicants by request.²
• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts are accepted for the initial review. Official transcripts are required upon enrollment.²
• Statement of purpose: A personal essay outlining your interest in marriage and family therapy, your professional goals, and why UMass Boston is the right fit.
• Letters of recommendation: Two letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your readiness for graduate-level clinical training.¹
• Resume or CV: Documenting your education, work history, and any clinical or counseling-related experience.

GRE Policy

UMass Boston does not require the GRE for admission to this program.¹ No standardized entrance exam is needed, which removes a common barrier for working adults and career changers who may be years removed from a testing environment. For comparison, programs like the Northwestern MFT program also waive the GRE, though admissions expectations can differ significantly by school.

Application Deadlines and Cohort Size

The priority application deadline for fall admission is January 2.¹ Applying by this date gives you the strongest chance of securing a seat and being considered for any available funding. Because the program enrolls students in a cohort model to facilitate clinical training sequences, spaces can be limited. If you are considering this program, submit your materials well before the priority deadline rather than waiting to see if later spots open up.

Overall, the admissions process favors applicants who combine a solid academic record with demonstrated interest in clinical work. If your GPA is above the minimum, you have meaningful experience in a helping profession, and you can articulate a clear path toward MFT licensure, you are well positioned for a competitive application.

Online and Flexible Learning Options

On-Campus Format at UMass Boston

UMass Boston's MFT-relevant graduate program is delivered on campus. As of 2026, the university does not offer a fully online or hybrid pathway for students pursuing marriage and family therapy coursework through this program. Classes are held in person at the Boston harbor campus, and students should plan their schedules around daytime and evening course offerings. If you are a working adult who cannot relocate to or commute within the Boston metro area, this format may present a significant barrier.

Why Fully Online MFT Programs Are Rare

Clinical practicum is the main reason most COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs cannot go entirely online. Accreditation standards require hundreds of hours of direct, face-to-face client contact under approved supervision, and those hours must take place at vetted clinical sites. Even programs that deliver didactic coursework online still require students to complete practicum locally, meaning you need access to approved sites in your area. For working adults, this creates a balancing act: you may attend lectures remotely, but you still spend significant time each week seeing clients in person and meeting with supervisors.

This reality means that "online MFT program" almost always translates to a hybrid model where lectures stream online and clinical training happens on the ground. Programs like the Fairfield University MFT program illustrate this hybrid approach, pairing online coursework with regional clinical placements.

Alternatives for Boston-Area Residents Who Need Flexibility

If the on-campus commitment at UMass Boston does not fit your life, several COAMFTE-accredited programs offer online or hybrid delivery that Massachusetts residents can access.

• Hybrid programs: Some accredited universities pair online coursework with regional practicum placements, allowing you to complete clinical hours at sites near Boston without relocating to another state.
• Asynchronous coursework: Programs built around recorded lectures and flexible deadlines let you study around a work schedule, with only practicum and occasional intensives requiring set times.
• Regional clinical networks: A handful of accredited online programs maintain relationships with practicum sites in the greater Boston area, streamlining the placement process for local students.

A detailed side-by-side comparison of these alternatives appears in the next section. The key takeaway is straightforward: UMass Boston requires your physical presence on campus, so if flexibility is a priority, you will want to explore hybrid or online COAMFTE-accredited options that still let you build a clinical foundation in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts LMFT Licensure Pathway: Step by Step

Becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Massachusetts follows a structured sequence set by the state Board of Registration. Each step builds on the last, so understanding the full pathway before you start a graduate program helps you plan your timeline and avoid costly detours.

How UMass Boston Compares to COAMFTE-Accredited Alternatives

Choosing the right MFT program means weighing accreditation, cost, format, and how well a degree positions you for licensure. Below is a side-by-side look at UMass Boston's MFT-track offering against two common program archetypes that Boston-area students typically consider.

Comparison at a Glance

What This Comparison Reveals

The most consequential difference is accreditation. UMass Boston's family therapy track is not COAMFTE-accredited.¹ That distinction matters because COAMFTE accreditation streamlines the path to licensure in Massachusetts and most other states.² Graduates of non-accredited programs may face additional coursework reviews, supplemental documentation, or outright ineligibility in certain jurisdictions.

A campus-based public COAMFTE-accredited program typically offers the lowest total cost, often landing between $20,000 and $35,000. If you live in the Boston area and can attend classes in person, this archetype usually delivers the best combination of affordability and credential strength. You also benefit from structured practicum placements arranged through the program's clinical partnerships.

An online COAMFTE-accredited program sits in a similar price range to UMass Boston but adds the accreditation credential that smooths licensure across state lines. Students still complete supervised clinical hours in their local area, so Boston-area residents can gain Massachusetts-specific experience while earning a nationally recognized degree. You can browse COAMFTE accredited programs to compare options directly.

When UMass Boston Still Makes Sense

UMass Boston's MFT track may appeal to students who already hold a connection to the university, value its counseling faculty, or plan to pursue licensure in a state where specific coursework, rather than COAMFTE accreditation, determines eligibility. Cost-wise, the program is competitive with online accredited alternatives, and its 60-credit curriculum covers foundational MFT content.¹

That said, if COAMFTE accreditation is a priority for your licensure plan, or if you want the most portable credential possible, one of the accredited archetypes above will likely serve you better. Confirm your target state's licensing board requirements before committing, because accreditation status can mean the difference between a smooth application and a lengthy review process.

Frequently Asked Questions About UMass Boston and MFT Licensure

Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about the UMass Boston MFT program, COAMFTE accreditation, and the path to Massachusetts LMFT licensure. If you are still weighing options, these responses will help you make a more informed decision.

Is the University of Massachusetts Boston MFT program COAMFTE accredited?

UMass Boston does not hold standalone COAMFTE accreditation for a dedicated MFT degree. The university offers MFT coursework within its counseling programs, and students can pursue an MFT track, but the program itself is not listed as a COAMFTE-accredited master's or doctoral program. If COAMFTE accreditation is a priority for you, verify the program's current status directly with the school before applying.

Can I get licensed as an MFT in Massachusetts without a COAMFTE-accredited degree?

Yes. Massachusetts does not require a COAMFTE-accredited degree for LMFT licensure. Candidates need a qualifying master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy (or a related field with equivalent MFT coursework), supervised clinical experience, and a passing score on the national MFT licensing examination. A COAMFTE-accredited program simplifies verification, but a regionally accredited program with the right coursework can also satisfy state requirements.

How much does the UMass Boston MFT program cost?

Tuition at UMass Boston varies by residency status and enrollment. As a public university, in-state graduate tuition is generally more affordable than private alternatives. Exact per-credit rates change annually, so check the UMass Boston bursar's office for current figures. Expect total program costs for a master's degree to be meaningfully lower than comparable private COAMFTE-accredited programs in the Boston area, though fees and course materials add to the base tuition.

Does UMass Boston offer an online MFT degree?

UMass Boston does not currently offer a fully online MFT degree. The program is primarily delivered on campus at the Boston Harbor campus. Some courses may use hybrid or blended formats, but clinical practica and many core classes require in-person attendance. Students who need a fully online option should explore COAMFTE-accredited programs at other institutions that have been approved for distance education delivery.

How many clinical hours do you need for LMFT licensure in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts requires a minimum of 1,000 hours of direct client contact under approved supervision to qualify for full LMFT licensure. This supervised experience is completed after earning your qualifying degree, during a post-degree supervised practice period. Your graduate program's practicum hours may partially count toward this total, but the state licensing board determines the final tally based on documentation.

Does UMass Boston offer a post-graduate certificate in marriage and family therapy?

As of 2026, UMass Boston does not advertise a standalone post-graduate certificate specifically in marriage and family therapy. Students who already hold a counseling or psychology master's degree and need additional MFT coursework should contact the department directly to ask about completing individual courses or arranging a course of study that meets Massachusetts licensure requirements.

Is a COAMFTE-accredited degree worth the extra cost over a regionally accredited alternative?

It depends on your career goals and where you plan to practice. A COAMFTE-accredited degree streamlines the licensure process in most states and is recognized nationally, which matters if you may relocate. If you intend to practice only in Massachusetts and your program includes the required MFT coursework, a regionally accredited degree from a school like UMass Boston can work. The lower tuition at a public university can offset the extra verification steps that a non-COAMFTE graduate may face during licensure.

Should You Apply to UMass Boston for MFT?

Choosing the right MFT program depends on your budget, career goals, and how you plan to navigate licensure. Here is a straightforward breakdown to help you decide whether UMass Boston's counseling program with MFT electives is the right fit for you.