Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in North Carolina 2025

Appalachian State University offers a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, a COAMFTE-accredited program designed to equip students with the skills to address complex family dynamics through systemic therapy. The 51-semester-hour curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical, in-person clinical training, preparing graduates for licensure and professional practice. Unique features include a GRE waiver option, an addictions counseling certificate, and a pathway to LCAS certification. With a focus on diversity and clinical excellence, the program sets a February 1, 2024, deadline for fall admissions, emphasizing a holistic approach to family therapy.

• 51 semester hours required
• COAMFTE accredited program
• Fall 2024 admission deadline Feb 1
• In-person clinical training
• GRE waiver available
• Optional Addictions Counseling Certificate
• LCAS certification pathway
• Professional licensure preparation

East Carolina University offers a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy (MS) that stands out for its COAMFTE accreditation since 1992. This full-time, two-year program requires 51 semester hours and provides students with hands-on clinical experience at the ECU Family Therapy Clinic. The curriculum focuses on systems theory and diverse clinical techniques, preparing graduates to support individuals, couples, and families effectively. Notably, the program does not require a thesis, offers an optional Medical Family Therapy Certificate, and necessitates three recommendation letters and a statement of purpose for admission.

• 51 semester hours total
• Full-time, two-year program
• COAMFTE accredited since 1992
• On-campus face-to-face format
• Clinical experience at ECU clinic
• 9 semester hours clinical placement
• No thesis required
• Optional Medical Family Therapy Certificate
• Three recommendation letters needed
• Statement of purpose required

East Carolina University's Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy with a concentration in Medical Family Therapy Certificate is a COAMFTE-accredited program designed for aspiring therapists. Spanning two years and requiring 51 semester hours, it combines rigorous coursework with practical training at the ECU Family Therapy Clinic. This program emphasizes the integration of theoretical knowledge with clinical practice, offering a unique focus on medical family therapy. Admission requirements include three recommendation letters and a statement of purpose, with no thesis required. Graduates are well-equipped to address the complex needs of individuals, couples, and families in therapeutic settings.

• COAMFTE accredited since 1992
• Two-year full-time program
• 51 semester hours required
• On-campus face-to-face format
• 9 semester hours clinical experience
• ECU Family Therapy Clinic training
• Three recommendation letters needed
• Statement of purpose required
• No thesis mandatory
• Medical Family Therapy Certificate available

Montreat College offers an online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy, blending clinical expertise with Christian values. This 54 to 60-credit program is tailored for those aiming to make a significant impact in therapeutic settings, providing the flexibility of eight-week courses and multiple start dates. It's designed to meet licensure requirements, emphasizing systemic care and faith integration. With a 3.0 GPA prerequisite, the program stands out for its commitment to preparing graduates for the growing demand in mental health services, evidenced by a 21.7% job growth projection and competitive regional salaries.

• Online graduate degree program
• 54-60 credit hours total
• 8-week course sessions
• 3.0 minimum GPA required
• Christian faith integration
• Licensed MFT preparation
• Full-time: 6 credit hours/semester
• Optional 60-credit licensure track
• National background check required
• Multiple start dates annually