Best Online MFT Programs for Delaware Students (2026)

Best Online MFT Degree Programs for Delaware Students

Ranked by cost, accreditation, and alignment with Delaware LMFT licensure requirements

By Emily CarterReviewed by Editorial & Advisory TeamUpdated May 23, 202625+ min read
Best Online MFT Programs for Delaware Students (2026)

What you’ll learn in this article…

  • Delaware has no in-state MFT program, so students must choose from online or hybrid options at out-of-state schools.
  • The state uses a two-tier licensing ladder requiring an associate license (LAMFT) before upgrading to full LMFT status.
  • COAMFTE accreditation is not required for Delaware licensure but simplifies documentation and interstate credential transfers.
  • Delaware employs roughly 380 marriage and family therapists, with much of the demand concentrated near Wilmington.

As of 2026, Delaware has no COAMFTE-accredited MFT graduate programs and no in-state graduate certificate options in marriage and family therapy. That gap pushes every aspiring Delaware LMFT toward out-of-state or online MFT degrees from the start.

The practical challenge is alignment: not every accredited online program automatically satisfies Delaware's specific coursework, clinical hour, and supervision requirements for licensure. Choosing the wrong program can mean extra classes, delayed applications, or denied credentials. Accredited online MFT programs from schools across the country do accept Delaware residents, and many are structured to meet or exceed state licensing standards, but verification before enrollment is essential.

Delaware employs roughly 380 marriage and family therapists, with most concentrated near Wilmington. Demand is steady, yet the supply pipeline depends entirely on out-of-state training, making program selection unusually high-stakes for students here. If you are new to the profession, our guide to becoming an MFT outlines the full journey from enrollment through independent practice.

Best Online MFT Programs for Delaware Students

Delaware does not currently have an in-state MFT program, so students pursuing licensure as a marriage and family therapist will need to look beyond state borders. The good news: several nationally recognized programs deliver MFT coursework online or in a hybrid format that Delaware residents can access without relocating. The programs below are ranked using a quality composite that weighs institutional graduation rates, net price, and post-graduation outcomes, giving you a balanced picture of academic strength and value rather than a single metric like cost or speed.

Factors considered
  • Institutional graduation rate
  • Net price after aid
  • Post-graduation earnings
  • Program accreditation status
  • Clinical placement support
Data sources

Northwestern University

#1

Evanston, IL · $29,000/yr (net price)

Best for: Delaware residents seeking simplified licensure

Northwestern University delivers a fully online, COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, making it one of the most strategically valuable options for Delaware residents. Because Delaware's licensing board streamlines educational review for COAMFTE graduates, Northwestern students can bypass the course-by-course content audit that other programs require. The program's dedicated placement specialists help students secure clinical sites in their home communities, a critical advantage in a small state with limited MFT-specific agencies. With a 95.1% institution-wide graduation rate and small, synchronous class sessions capped at 15 students, the academic environment rivals any on-campus experience.

  • COAMFTE accredited, easing Delaware LMFT education requirements
  • Fully online with live, synchronous class sessions
  • Completable in 21 to 36 months depending on enrollment pace
  • 400 clinical fieldwork hours including 100 relational hours
  • No GRE required for admission
  • Placement specialists help arrange local clinical sites
  • Classes capped at 15 students for close faculty interaction

University of Southern California

#2

Los Angeles, CA · $33,000/yr

Best for: Career changers wanting elite clinical training

The University of Southern California offers its M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy in a fully online format through the Rossier School of Education, with a cohort-based structure that keeps students on track across 24 months. USC's field placement team coordinates practicum and internship sites in students' home states, so Delaware residents can complete clinical hours locally or in nearby Pennsylvania and Maryland. The program reports a 92% clinical exam pass rate and strong alumni career outcomes. Although it is not COAMFTE accredited, the rigorous 60-unit curriculum covers the systemic and relational content areas Delaware requires, and the institution's 91.8% graduation rate reflects broad academic quality.

  • Fully online, cohort-based 24-month program
  • 60 total units at $2,354 per unit
  • Field placement team arranges sites in students' home states
  • 92% clinical exam pass rate reported by the program
  • Competitive scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $30,000
  • No GRE required for admission
  • Prepares graduates for licensure exams and telehealth practice

University of South Florida

#3

Tampa, FL · $10,000/yr

Best for: Licensed clinicians adding systemic skills

The University of South Florida offers a 15-credit Graduate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy designed for professionals who already hold a clinical license or are pursuing one in a related field. The certificate focuses on systemic approaches and advanced therapeutic techniques rather than full licensure preparation, so it is best suited for Delaware-based social workers, counselors, or psychologists who want to deepen their couples and family competencies. USF's low net price of $9,812 and 76.8% graduation rate reflect solid value at the institutional level.

  • 15-credit hour hybrid program with online and on-campus elements
  • 6 required core credits plus 9 elective credits
  • Designed for already-licensed mental health professionals
  • Covers systemic therapy approaches and family systems theory
  • Does not fulfill standalone LMFT licensure requirements
  • No entrance exam required for admission

California State University-Northridge

#4

Northridge, CA · ~$7,000/yr (est.)

California State University-Northridge's COAMFTE-accredited M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy uses an accelerated eight-week course format that lets students finish in under two years. The COAMFTE designation means Delaware's board will accept the transcript without a detailed content-area audit. However, the hybrid structure centers on the Northridge campus and California-based clinical placements, so Delaware students should expect to spend significant time on-site rather than studying entirely from home. At a net price of $7,021, it is one of the most affordable options on this list.

  • COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited program
  • One course at a time in eight-week sessions
  • Prepares graduates for both LMFT and LPCC licensure
  • Year-round scheduling enables sub-two-year completion
  • Hybrid format requires on-campus presence in Northridge, CA
  • Curriculum covers family therapy theories, ethics, and assessment
  • No specific entrance exam required for application

University of Oregon

#5

Eugene, OR · ~$22,000/yr (est.)

The University of Oregon's Couples and Family Therapy program is a COAMFTE-accredited, 90-credit M.S. that uses a small cohort model of 22 to 24 students per year. Its Spanish Language Specialization is particularly relevant for Delaware students who plan to serve the state's growing Spanish-speaking population as bilingual LMFTs, a niche with very few providers. The program requires 350 direct client contact hours and leverages its Center for Healthy Relationships for clinical training. Note that the hybrid format is based in Eugene, Oregon, so relocation is generally expected.

  • COAMFTE accredited, 90-credit master's program
  • Small cohort model with 22 to 24 students per year
  • 350 direct client contact hours required
  • Clinical training through the Center for Healthy Relationships
  • No entrance exam required; bachelor's in any discipline accepted
  • Spanish Language Specialization available for bilingual practice
  • Inclusive, social justice-oriented curriculum at a Research I university

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

#6

Winona, MN · $12,000/yr (net price)

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota delivers a COAMFTE-accredited M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy through a 48-credit hybrid curriculum that blends face-to-face and online coursework. Because of its COAMFTE status, Delaware applicants benefit from a simplified educational review when applying for LMFT licensure. Students complete at least 300 clinical contact hours, including 150 relational hours with couples and families. The program does not require the GRE or MAT and offers conditional admission for applicants with GPAs between 2.75 and 3.0, broadening access for nontraditional students.

  • COAMFTE accredited, streamlining Delaware LMFT education review
  • 48-credit hybrid curriculum with online and on-campus components
  • 300 clinical contact hours including 150 relational hours
  • No GRE or MAT required for admission
  • Conditional admission available for GPAs between 2.75 and 3.0
  • Capstone course, theory of change paper, and oral examination
  • Curriculum covers human development, marital studies, and ethics

Texas Woman's University

#7

Denton, TX · $12,000/yr

Texas Woman's University offers a COAMFTE-accredited M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy that prepares graduates for the national licensure exam. The program typically takes about three years to complete and includes a thesis option for students interested in research. Its COAMFTE accreditation means Delaware's board should accept the credential without a course-by-course review. However, the hybrid delivery is centered on TWU campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston, so Delaware students would generally need to relocate to Texas for the duration of the program.

  • COAMFTE accredited, aligning with Delaware education standards
  • Hybrid format across Denton, Dallas, and Houston campuses
  • Three-year typical completion timeline
  • No GRE or letters of recommendation required
  • Thesis option available for research-oriented students
  • Fall and spring admission cycles
  • $50 application fee; no additional entrance exam

Western Kentucky University

#8

Bowling Green, KY · $12,000 – $27,000/yr

Western Kentucky University's CACREP-accredited master's in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling provides hands-on clinical training through the on-campus Talley Family Counseling Center. Because this is a counseling degree rather than a COAMFTE MFT program, Delaware applicants will need to document how their coursework maps to the state's nine required content areas for LMFT licensure. The net price of $10,990 and financial support through the Department of Counseling and Student Affairs make it a budget-friendly option for students willing to navigate the additional paperwork.

  • CACREP-accredited master's program in counseling
  • Hybrid format with clinical training at Talley Family Counseling Center
  • Supervised experience with couples, families, and individuals
  • Financial support options available through the department
  • Prepares graduates for licensure as marriage and family therapists
  • GRE typically required for admission
  • Delaware applicants may need course-by-course content mapping

Moody Bible Institute

#9

Chicago, IL · $22,000/yr (net price)

Moody Bible Institute's Graduate Certificate in Marriage, Family, and Couples Counseling is an 18-credit post-master's credential that integrates biblical perspectives with clinical counseling skills. It is explicitly designed for professionals who already hold a master's degree and clinical license, so it does not serve as a primary pathway to Delaware LMFT licensure. Delaware clinicians looking to add faith-integrated systemic competencies to an existing practice will find value in the $539-per-credit-hour price point and multiple start dates.

  • 18-credit post-master's certificate at $539 per credit hour
  • Hybrid format with online coursework and campus intensives
  • Designed for already-licensed mental health professionals
  • Biblical integration with clinical counseling techniques
  • Admissions interview required; no GRE needed
  • Multiple start dates throughout the year
  • Does not meet standalone LMFT licensure requirements

John Brown University

#10

Siloam Springs, AR · $20,000 – $25,000/yr

John Brown University's CACREP-accredited M.S. in Counseling with a Marriage and Family Therapy concentration is a 60-credit hybrid program where over 70% of coursework is completed online or on weekends. Students can also choose Play Therapy or Adventure Therapy concentrations. Clinical placements are arranged through JBU's Community Counseling Clinics, which report a 100% placement rate. Because this is a counseling degree rather than a COAMFTE program, Delaware students will need to carefully map their coursework to the state's LMFT content-area requirements.

  • 60-credit CACREP-accredited hybrid program
  • Over 70% of coursework completed online or on weekends
  • 100 practicum hours and 600 internship hours required
  • No GRE and no application fee
  • 100% clinical placement rate across 44 partner sites
  • Classes capped at 24 students in 16-week terms
  • Christ-centered curriculum designed for working professionals
  • Specialized play therapy track within the 60-credit program
  • CACREP accredited with hybrid online and weekend delivery
  • 82% NCE pass rate reported for recent graduates
  • Face-to-face clinical work at community counseling clinics
  • Prepares graduates for LPC or LMHC licensure
  • Flexible scheduling accommodates working professionals
  • Adventure therapy emphasis within 60-credit counseling degree
  • CACREP accredited through 2032
  • 91% job placement rate reported by the program
  • Hybrid format with in-person clinicals at community clinics
  • No GRE or application fee required
  • Integrates faith-based perspectives with experiential therapy

Most Affordable Online MFT Programs for Delaware Residents

Because Delaware does not currently have in-state MFT programs, online and hybrid options from accredited schools nationwide are worth exploring. The table below ranks five of the most affordable programs by institution-wide average net price after financial aid. Keep in mind that these net price figures reflect a school-wide average for all students receiving aid and are not a guaranteed quote for your specific situation. Delaware residents will typically pay out-of-state tuition rates at public universities, so both columns are included for comparison.

SchoolStateOut-of-State TuitionAvg. Net Price (After Aid)FormatAccreditationDegree Level
Purdue University NorthwestIN$11,960$6,079HybridCOAMFTEMaster's
California State University, NorthridgeCA$19,062$7,021HybridCOAMFTEMaster's
University of South FloridaFL$21,126$9,812HybridN/AGraduate Certificate
Western Kentucky UniversityKY$18,340$10,990HybridCACREPMaster's
Saint Mary's University of MinnesotaMN$12,474$11,704HybridCOAMFTEMaster's

Questions to Ask Yourself

Some online MFT programs include weekend intensives or week-long residencies at the home campus. Since Delaware has no in-state MFT program, factor travel costs and time off work into your total budget before committing.

Delaware requires specific supervised clinical contact hours for licensure. If a program's practicum falls short, you may need to accumulate additional post-degree hours, which delays your path to independent practice.

Not every out-of-state program has clinical site partnerships in Delaware. Programs that leave placement logistics entirely to students can add months of lead time and uncertainty to your fieldwork planning.

Delaware does not strictly require COAMFTE accreditation for LMFT licensure, but holding a degree from an accredited program can streamline your application and strengthen reciprocity if you ever practice in another state.

How to Become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Delaware

Delaware uses a two-tier licensing ladder. You first earn an associate license (LAMFT) to complete supervised postgraduate work, then upgrade to full LMFT status after meeting all clinical and exam requirements. Here is the path from enrollment to independent practice.

Five step credentialing ladder from graduate degree through LAMFT associate license and 3,200 supervised hours to full Delaware LMFT licensure

Delaware LMFT Licensure Requirements Mapped to Your Program Choice

Choosing the right MFT program is not just about academics. It is about making sure every credit hour, clinical placement, and coursework area aligns with what Delaware demands before you can practice. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the state's requirements so you can vet any program, especially online options, before committing your time and tuition dollars.

Step 1: Confirm the Degree and Coursework Requirements

Delaware requires a master's or doctoral degree that includes at least 45 semester credits in marriage and family therapy, with content spanning nine designated coursework areas.1 These areas cover foundational topics such as human development, family systems theory, research methodology, professional ethics, and clinical practice. Your program must also include a minimum of 9 practicum credits, during which you complete at least 300 direct client contact hours, with no fewer than 150 of those hours involving couple or family therapy.1

Programs holding COAMFTE accreditation are generally structured to meet or exceed these content and clinical benchmarks. If you are considering a non-accredited program, you will need to cross-reference its curriculum against Delaware's nine required content areas before enrolling. The safest approach is to contact the Delaware Board of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling directly and ask whether the program you are considering satisfies their educational standards.2 For a broader overview of what the journey looks like from enrollment through independent practice, see our guide to becoming an MFT.

Step 2: Plan for Clinical Placements as an Online Student

Online students face a practical challenge: those 300 pre-degree direct client contact hours must be completed with real clients in a supervised clinical setting. Delaware does not waive this requirement for distance learners. That means you will need to arrange a local practicum site, typically a community mental health agency, private practice, or hospital, and confirm that the site meets your program's standards as well as the state's. Start this process early; securing a quality placement in Delaware can take several months. If you want to know what the clinical experience actually looks like day to day, our article on MFT practicum requirements offers helpful context.

Step 3: Understand the LAMFT-to-LMFT Pathway

Delaware uses a two-tier licensure structure that directly affects how you plan your postgraduate career. For a detailed comparison of associate and fully licensed credentials, see our breakdown of the difference between AMFT and LMFT.

  • LAMFT (Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist): This is the provisional license you obtain after completing your degree and passing the national exam. It authorizes you to practice under an approved supervisor. The initial fee is $194, the license lasts two years, and it can be renewed a maximum of two times. You must submit a supervision plan with your application.1
  • LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist): This is the fully independent license. To upgrade, you need at least two years and 3,200 hours of postgraduate clinical experience, including 1,600 supervised clinical hours and 1,500 direct therapy hours.2 Within those direct therapy hours, at least 500 must involve couple or family therapy and another 500 must involve individual therapy.1 You also need a minimum of 100 supervision hours, though no more than 50 of those may be conducted via telesupervision.1

Your supervisor must hold a Delaware LMFT credential, carry AAMFT Approved Supervisor designation, or be an out-of-state licensed MFT with at least five years of experience.4 Understanding this pathway matters at the program-selection stage because some programs offer stronger supervision networks and practicum coordination than others.

Step 4: Prepare for the Licensure Exam

Delaware requires passage of the national AMFTRB examination with a minimum score of 70 percent.1 You must pass this exam before applying for your LAMFT, so plan to sit for it shortly after graduating.2 The LMFT application fee is $194, and the upgrade fee from LAMFT to LMFT is $55.1 Once fully licensed, you will need to complete 40 continuing education hours per renewal cycle to maintain your credential.5

Step 5: Verify Before You Enroll

This step cannot be overstated: not every online MFT program satisfies Delaware's nine required content areas or its specific practicum structure. A program that meets licensure requirements in one state may leave gaps in another. Before you enroll, request a course-by-course alignment with Delaware's standards from your prospective program, and confirm that alignment independently with the Delaware Board of Mental Health. A few phone calls or emails now can save you from costly surprises after graduation.

COAMFTE-Accredited vs Non-Accredited Programs: What Delaware Students Should Know

Delaware does not require graduation from a COAMFTE-accredited program to qualify for LMFT licensure. However, the path you choose affects how much documentation you need, how quickly you can get licensed, and whether your credential transfers easily to other states. Here is a clear breakdown of each option so you can weigh the trade-offs before committing.

Pros
  • COAMFTE programs are the recognized gold standard and receive automatic acceptance by the Delaware board, eliminating course-by-course evaluation.
  • Clinical training, including the required 300 direct client contact hours, is built into COAMFTE curricula from the start.
  • Graduating from a COAMFTE program streamlines licensure portability if you ever relocate to another state.
  • Non-COAMFTE, regionally accredited programs give Delaware students more options, including lower cost and accelerated formats.
  • Graduates of allied fields such as counseling, social work, or psychology may still qualify under Delaware rules if coursework covers all nine required content areas.
  • Regionally accredited programs are often more widely available online, expanding choices for working adults in Delaware.
Cons
  • Fewer COAMFTE-accredited programs exist, especially fully online options, which limits flexibility for Delaware residents.
  • COAMFTE programs can carry higher tuition, and you should still verify that the curriculum addresses all of Delaware's nine specific content areas.
  • Non-COAMFTE graduates face conditional acceptance and must complete a detailed documentation worksheet proving equivalent coursework across 45 or more graduate credits.
  • The course-by-course review process for non-COAMFTE applicants can delay licensure and require additional paperwork with the Delaware Board of Professional Regulation.
  • Degrees from non-accredited (non-COAMFTE) programs are less portable, potentially requiring extra evaluations if you seek licensure in states that mandate COAMFTE graduation.
  • Supervised clinical credit requirements, including 150 hours with couples or families, may not be embedded in non-COAMFTE curricula, forcing students to arrange placements independently.

Online vs. Hybrid MFT Programs: Residency and Fieldwork Considerations for Delaware Students

Choosing between a fully online MFT program and a hybrid or in-person option is one of the most consequential decisions you will make as a Delaware student. The format you pick affects your schedule, your clinical training experience, and how much legwork you need to do to secure practicum placements close to home.

What "No Residency" Actually Means

When an online MFT program advertises "no residency requirement," it means you will not be required to travel to a physical campus for intensive weekends, summer sessions, or orientation blocks. Your coursework is delivered entirely through a virtual platform. That said, every accredited MFT program, whether online or on campus, requires supervised clinical fieldwork. Delaware licensure demands hands-on client contact hours, and no program can waive that. So "no residency" does not mean "no in-person obligations." It simply means those obligations happen at a practicum site in your own community rather than at a university campus hundreds of miles away.

How Online Programs Handle Practicum Placement

Practicum logistics vary significantly from one program to the next, and this distinction matters more in a small state like Delaware.

  • University-assisted placement: Some programs maintain networks of approved clinical sites and will actively help match you with a supervisor in your area. This is a major advantage if you are unfamiliar with the local mental health landscape.
  • Student-directed placement: Other programs require you to locate and propose your own site, then seek the school's approval. This approach gives you more flexibility but places the burden of networking squarely on your shoulders.

Before you enroll, ask admissions whether the program has placed students in Delaware before and whether it has existing site agreements in the state.

Common Practicum Sites in Delaware

Despite its small size, Delaware offers a range of clinical settings where MFT students can accumulate supervised hours:

  • Community mental health centers in Wilmington, Dover, and Newark
  • Private group practices that accept practicum trainees
  • Hospital-based behavioral health programs, including those within the ChristianaCare and Bayhealth systems
  • Nonprofit family service agencies focused on domestic violence intervention, child welfare, or substance use treatment

Building relationships with these organizations early, even before your practicum semester begins, can make the placement process far smoother.

Nearby Hybrid and In-Person Alternatives in the Philadelphia-Wilmington Corridor

If you prefer some face-to-face classroom instruction, several COAMFTE-accredited programs sit within commuting distance of northern Delaware. Drexel University offers a 90-credit Master of Family Therapy with on-campus and some hybrid coursework, requiring 500 direct client contact hours and 100 supervision hours.1 Thomas Jefferson University runs a 66-credit, primarily on-campus program designed to be completed in about 24 months, with the same 500 direct client contact hours and 100 supervision hours.2 La Salle University also provides a primarily in-person Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy with COAMFTE accreditation.3

For students in central or southern Delaware, the commute to Philadelphia may be less practical. In that case, a fully online program paired with a local practicum site is often the more realistic path. Capella University, for example, offers a COAMFTE-accredited online MS in Marriage and Family Therapy at 72 quarter credits, with completion timelines ranging from roughly 33 to 42 months, giving you the flexibility to stay rooted in your community while earning your degree.4 You can compare this and similar options in our roundup of best online MFT programs.

The bottom line: weigh how much in-person interaction you need in a classroom against the convenience and geographic flexibility of an online format, and always confirm that your chosen program can support a successful practicum experience in Delaware. For a broader look at COAMFTE accredited programs across the country, explore our full school directory.

MFT Career and Salary Outlook in Delaware

Despite being one of the nation's smallest states, Delaware employs an estimated 380 marriage and family therapists, reflecting steady demand for mental health professionals across the region. Many Delaware MFTs practice in the Wilmington area, which sits within the broader Philadelphia metropolitan corridor and offers additional employment opportunities across state lines. The table below compares Delaware MFT salary benchmarks with related roles to help you gauge earning potential after completing your online degree.

RoleTotal Employment in Delaware25th Percentile SalaryMedian SalaryMean Salary75th Percentile Salary
Marriage and Family Therapists380$53,560$63,360$64,840$76,350
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary80$64,070$81,530$83,940$101,210

Frequently Asked Questions About MFT Programs for Delaware Students

Choosing the right MFT program and understanding Delaware's licensure process can raise many questions. Below are answers to the most common concerns from prospective students in the state, drawn from current Delaware licensing regulations and program data.

Are there any MFT programs in Delaware?
Delaware does not currently have any COAMFTE-accredited, campus-based MFT programs within the state. However, Delaware students can enroll in accredited online or hybrid MFT programs offered by universities in other states. Many of these programs are specifically designed to meet licensure requirements across multiple states, including Delaware.
Can I complete an MFT degree entirely online and still get licensed in Delaware?
Yes, you can earn your MFT degree online and still qualify for Delaware licensure. However, you will need to complete supervised clinical hours, including direct client contact, at an approved site. These practicum and internship placements typically must be arranged in person at a local agency or practice in Delaware or a nearby state.
What is the difference between LAMFT and LMFT in Delaware?
The LAMFT (Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist) is the initial, supervised license for graduates who have not yet completed all post-degree clinical hours. The LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) is the fully independent license. To upgrade from LAMFT to LMFT, you must accumulate the required supervised experience and pass the national exam. The upgrade fee is $55.
Which online MFT programs are COAMFTE accredited?
Several universities offer COAMFTE-accredited online or hybrid MFT programs open to Delaware residents. Examples include programs at Northcentral University (now the University of Arizona Global Campus), Capella University, and Fairfield University. Always verify a program's current COAMFTE accreditation status before enrolling, as accreditation can change.
How long does it take to become a licensed marriage and family therapist in Delaware?
The full timeline is typically five to seven years. This includes earning a master's degree in MFT (two to three years), completing post-graduate supervised clinical experience as a LAMFT (usually two or more years), and passing the AMFTRB National MFT Exam. Accelerated programs may shorten the academic portion slightly.
What are the practicum or fieldwork requirements for Delaware licensure?
Delaware requires supervised clinical experience as part of both your degree and your post-graduate training. Your graduate program must include a clinical practicum with direct client contact hours. After graduation, you will practice under supervision as a LAMFT until you meet the state's required hours for full LMFT licensure.
How much does it cost to apply for MFT licensure in Delaware?
The application fee for either the LAMFT or LMFT license in Delaware is $194. The national exam fee is paid separately to the testing organization. If you are upgrading from LAMFT to LMFT, there is an additional $55 upgrade fee. Budget for these costs alongside any background check or credential verification expenses.
Does Delaware offer licensure reciprocity for MFTs licensed in other states?
Yes, Delaware offers licensure by reciprocity for marriage and family therapists who hold a current, active license in another state. You must demonstrate at least five years of clinical experience to qualify. This pathway can simplify the process for experienced practitioners relocating to Delaware. Specific requirements are outlined in the state's administrative code.

More Online MFT Programs Available to Delaware Students

Beyond our top-ranked selections, these additional online MFT programs offer Delaware students more options to consider. Each program can be completed from Delaware and provides unique features worth exploring.

Oregon Institute of Technology
Offers a hybrid M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy with concentrations in Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, and Integrated Behavioral Healthcare, focusing on rural mental health and multicultural competence.
Prescott College
Provides a CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Counseling with a Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling concentration, delivered in a hybrid format with minimal campus residency.
Mercy University
Offers a 60-credit hybrid MS in Marriage and Family Therapy with 300 direct client contact hours, preparing students for licensure with flexible full- and part-time enrollment.
Western Michigan University
Provides a hybrid M.A. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, blending online coursework with on-campus clinical training at clinics in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids.
Carson-Newman University
Delivers a CACREP-accredited hybrid Master of Science in Counseling with a Marriage & Family Therapy concentration, emphasizing hands-on experience through multiple clinical internship sites.
Purdue University Northwest
Offers a COAMFTE-accredited hybrid Master of Science in Couple and Family Therapy, requiring 500 client contact hours and 100 supervision hours within a scholar-practitioner model.
Central Connecticut State University
Provides a COAMFTE-accredited hybrid Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy with flexible evening classes and no GRE/GMAT requirement.
Syracuse University
Offers a COAMFTE-accredited online M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy with live evening classes and a 500-hour clinical practicum, including a 40% tuition scholarship.
California Lutheran University
Provides a hybrid Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with a Marriage and Family Therapy concentration, featuring clinical training and comprehensive exam preparation for licensure.
Drexel University
Offers a COAMFTE-accredited hybrid Master of Family Therapy with concentrations in Trauma and Addiction or LGBT and Specific Populations, including extensive clinical practicum hours.
Regis University
Provides a COAMFTE-accredited hybrid M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy with evening and weekend classes, experiential learning, and an on-campus practicum.
Lancaster Bible College
Offers a hybrid Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling integrating biblical principles with evidence-based techniques, including 800 hours of clinical experience.
Manhattan College
Provides a hybrid Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy with a contextual approach, blending online and in-person courses and requiring 500 internship hours.
Our Lady of the Lake University
Offers a COAMFTE-accredited hybrid Master of Science in Psychology with a Marriage and Family Therapy concentration, featuring evening classes and university-based clinic training.
Regent University
Provides a hybrid Graduate Certificate in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling focusing on couples therapy and addiction counseling, with flexible online and on-campus options.

Recent Articles