Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in Alabama 2025
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) is a growing field in Alabama, offering aspiring therapists a range of accredited programs designed to prepare them for licensure and clinical practice. Whether you’re looking for a master’s in MFT, a post-master’s certificate, or a doctorate (DMFT or PhD) in MFT, Alabama has several programs that provide quality education and clinical training.
This guide explores the best MFT degree programs in Alabama, including the fastest pathways, the most affordable options, and the steps required to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state.
In this guide
2025 Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Programs in Alabama
Looking for the best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) programs in Alabama? You're in the right place. At marriagefamilytherapist.org, we've done the homework to help you find top-notch programs. Our rankings focus on quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, our list can guide your choice. Want to know how we picked these programs? Check out our rankings methodology for all the details.
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL - Public 4-Year - uwa.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Family Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Alabama presents an online Master of Science in Family Counseling, designed for those aiming to deepen their understanding of family dynamics and counseling techniques. This 33-credit hour program, priced at $429 per credit, is tailored for professionals seeking flexibility without compromising on quality. With courses delivered in an 8-week format, students can complete the program in 1-2 years, starting March 17. The curriculum, led by licensed professionals, emphasizes ethical practice and therapeutic strategies, though it does not prepare students for independent licensure. Recognized for its affordability, ranking #38, it's a prime choice for international practitioners and paraprofessionals alike.
- Online Master's in Family Counseling
- 33 total credit hours
- 1-2 years program length
- Next start date March 17
- $429 per credit hour
- 8-week course format
- No independent licensure preparation
- Taught by licensed professionals
- International practice focused
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University's Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (MS-MFT) stands out as a premier program for those seeking to make a significant impact in the field of family therapy. This COAMFTE-accredited program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to address complex family dynamics through a systemic lens. With a focus on hands-on learning, students complete over 500 clinical therapy hours, supported by a 4:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized guidance. The program's exclusivity, admitting only six students each year, guarantees a tight-knit learning community. Full tuition waivers and paid internship opportunities further distinguish this two-year master's program, preparing graduates for state licensure and beyond.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- Six students admitted annually
- Full tuition waiver guaranteed
- Over 500 clinical therapy hours
- Paid internship opportunities
- December 15 application deadline
- Two-year master's program
- 4:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Diverse clinical placement sites
- Prepares for state licensure
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy Graduate Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's Marriage and Family Therapy Graduate Program stands out for its COAMFTE accreditation, ensuring high-quality training for future mental health practitioners. This campus-based program equips students with a systemic therapeutic approach to tackle a broad spectrum of clinical concerns, from individual to family dynamics. It meticulously prepares graduates for Alabama licensure, offering a pathway to diverse career opportunities in various clinical settings. With an application deadline of January 7, the program emphasizes diagnosing mental disorders and treating a wide range of populations, while also serving as a stepping stone for those considering a PhD. The curriculum blends rigorous academic coursework with practical experience, fostering professionals adept at navigating complex emotional and mental health issues.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- Meets Alabama Licensure Requirements
- Application Deadline: January 7
- Mental Health Practitioner Training
- Treats Wide Range Clinical Concerns
- Multiple Career Path Options
- Systemic Therapeutic Approach
- Diagnose Mental Disorders
- Diverse Treatment Populations
- PhD Program Preparation
University of Montevallo
Montevallo, AL - Public 4-Year - montevallo.edu
Master's - M.Ed. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Montevallo's M.Ed. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling is a CACREP-certified program designed for aspiring mental health professionals. It offers a robust curriculum focusing on therapeutic techniques for diverse populations. With options to specialize in clinical mental health, school counseling, or couples and family counseling, students receive hands-on training to address complex relational dynamics. The program emphasizes practical experience, preparing graduates to make a meaningful impact in various counseling settings. Applications for Fall 2025 are now open, with a deadline of March 2, 2025, offering a pathway to specialize in fostering healthy family and couple relationships.
- CACREP-certified counseling program
- Three degree track options
- Fall 2025 applications open
- Application deadline March 2, 2025
- Specializations in mental health counseling
- School counseling track available
- Couples and family counseling option
Other MFT Programs Available in Alabama
Alabama is home to several reputable universities offering COAMFTE-accredited and regionally accredited Marriage and Family Therapy programs. The best MFT programs in Alabama provide comprehensive coursework, supervised clinical experience, and preparation for licensure.
Here are some of the top institutions offering MFT degrees in Alabama:
- Amridge University (Montgomery, AL) – Provides an online Master’s in MFT program, designed for flexibility while meeting state licensure requirements.
Alabama's Quickest MFT Programs
If you’re looking to complete your MFT degree as quickly as possible, several programs in Alabama offer accelerated or flexible formats to help students graduate faster.
|
School
|
Program Length
|
Type
|
|---|---|---|
|
Amridge University
|
~2 years
|
Fully Online
|
|
University of Alabama
|
2-3 years
|
On-Campus
|
|
Auburn University
|
2-3 years
|
Hybrid
|
|
University of Montevallo
|
2-3 years
|
On-Campus
|
Many online programs, like those at Amridge University, allow students to study at their own pace, reducing the time needed to earn their degree. Some programs also offer year-round enrollment, meaning students can take courses in the summer to finish faster.
Alabama's Cheapest MFT Programs
For students seeking an affordable path to becoming an MFT or LMFT, tuition costs can be a major factor. Below are some of the most budget-friendly MFT programs in Alabama:
|
School
|
Estimated Tuition
|
Type
|
|---|---|---|
|
University of Montevallo
|
$25,000
|
On-Campus
|
|
Amridge University
|
$30,000
|
Online
|
|
University of Alabama
|
$35,000
|
On-Campus
|
|
Auburn University
|
$40,000
|
Hybrid
|
Public universities, such as the University of Montevallo, tend to have lower tuition costs for in-state residents, making them a cost-effective option for Alabama students.
How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in Alabama
To become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Alabama, you must follow these steps:
- Earn a COAMFTE-Accredited Master’s Degree in MFT – Alabama requires candidates to complete a master’s program in MFT or a related field with a minimum number of clinical training hours.
- Complete 2,000+ Postgraduate Supervised Clinical Hours – After earning your degree, you must complete at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience under a licensed supervisor.
- Pass the National MFT Exam – The exam is administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
- Apply for Alabama State Licensure – Submit all required documents to the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy for approval.
- Maintain Continuing Education Credits – Alabama requires LMFTs to complete continuing education (CE) credits to renew their licenses regularly.
For more details on licensing requirements and deadlines, visit the Alabama Board of Examiners in MFT to learn more about upcoming deadlines and license requirements. There are also multiple professional networks in Alabama for Marriage and Family Therapists such as the Alabama Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (ALAMFT).
LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in Alabama
The job outlook for MFTs in Alabama is promising, with increasing demand for mental health professionals across the state. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that MFT jobs are projected to grow by 16% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
MFT Salaries in Alabama:
- Entry-Level Salary: ~$42,000 per year
- Median Salary: ~$54,500 per year
- Experienced LMFTs: $80,000+ per year
Factors affecting salary include:
- Work setting: Private practice MFTs typically earn more than those in community clinics.
- Location: Therapists in cities like Birmingham, Montgomery, and Huntsville often earn higher salaries.
- Specializations: MFTs with expertise in trauma, addiction, or family conflict resolution may command higher earnings.
Start Your MFT Journey in Alabama
If you’re considering a career as an MFT in Alabama, now is a great time to explore your options. With accredited programs, affordable tuition, and growing job opportunities, Alabama is an excellent place to begin your journey toward getting your MFT degree.
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