Ohio has no in-state MFT graduate programs, so online degrees from COAMFTE or CACREP accredited schools fulfill all state licensing requirements.
Experienced Ohio MFTs earn significantly above the median, with roughly 710 therapists employed statewide and demand rising.
Part-time online students can finish most MFT master's programs in about three years, including 500 hours of supervised clinical practicum.
Both COAMFTE and CACREP accreditation satisfy Ohio licensure, but each credential carries distinct advantages worth comparing before you enroll.
Ohio's Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows roughly 710 licensed marriage and family therapists working in the state, with projected demand climbing as telehealth adoption and mental health parity laws widen access to family-based care. Yet Ohio currently has no in-state graduate MFT programs. That gap sends nearly every aspiring Ohio LMFT to out-of-state online or hybrid programs, a path that works well when you choose a COAMFTE or CACREP accredited degree built to satisfy Ohio's Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board requirements. For a broader look at what is available nationwide, explore the Best Online Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degrees.
The practical challenge is sorting programs by cost, accreditation, and part-time flexibility without reliable comparison data in one place. Median annual wages for Ohio MFTs range from roughly $42,000 at the entry level to over $65,000 for experienced clinicians, so tuition decisions carry real weight against expected returns.
Top Online MFT Programs for Ohio Students
Ohio does not currently have any in-state MFT programs that meet the criteria for this ranking, but that is not a barrier. A growing number of nationally recognized universities deliver their marriage and family therapy coursework entirely or primarily online, and many actively help students arrange clinical placements close to home. The programs below are ordered by a composite quality score that weighs factors such as institutional graduation rates, net price, and online-delivery eligibility. Ohio residents should verify that any program they choose aligns with the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board's educational and clinical-hour requirements before enrolling.
Factors considered
Institutional graduation rate
Net price after aid
Online delivery availability
Retention and student outcomes
Program accreditation status
Data sources
NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
Best for: Career changers seeking elite credentials online
Northwestern University delivers a fully online, COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy through synchronous classes capped at 15 students. The program can be completed in as few as 21 months full-time or stretched to 36 months for part-time learners, with no GRE required. Notably, Northwestern's placement team helps online students secure clinical fieldwork sites in their home communities, a significant advantage for Ohio residents who need to log 400 hours of supervised client contact without relocating.
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy — Online
Best for: Licensed clinicians adding MFT specialization
The University of South Florida offers a 15-credit-hour Graduate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy geared toward already-licensed mental health professionals who want to add systemic therapy skills. Because it is designed as a credential supplement rather than a standalone licensure pathway, Ohio students should treat it as continuing education rather than a route to initial LMFT status. Out-of-state tuition sits at roughly $21,126 per year at the institutional level, with a net price of about $9,812 after aid.
Graduate Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy — Hybrid
Designed for social workers, counselors, psychologists
Systemic therapy approach to family disorders
Hybrid delivery with some online coursework
Experienced faculty in family systems research
Not intended to meet standalone licensure requirements
University of Southern California
#3
Los Angeles, CA · $33,000/yr
Best for: Ambitious students valuing research university resources
The University of Southern California's Rossier School of Education runs an online Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy that can be completed in about 24 months. USC reports a 92% clinical exam pass rate and offers scholarships ranging from $15,000 to $30,000. The institution works with online students to arrange fieldwork in their state of residence, though Ohio applicants should confirm site eligibility with the Ohio licensing board. At $71,515 in listed tuition, it is the most expensive option on this list, but a net price around $32,740 and strong post-graduation outcomes help offset the sticker shock.
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy — Online
Curriculum emphasizes cultural humility and equity
Prepares for telehealth, community, and private practice
Bachelor's degree and transcripts required
California State University-Northridge
#4
Northridge, CA · ~$7,000/yr (est.)
California State University, Northridge provides a COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy structured around one course at a time in eight-week blocks. Students can finish in under two years. Out-of-state tuition is approximately $19,062, making it one of the more affordable options on this list. The program also holds IACSTE accreditation and prepares graduates for both LMFT and LPCC licensure, though its curriculum is primarily aligned with California licensing standards, so Ohio students should verify credit and hour compatibility.
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy — Hybrid
Covers family therapy theories, ethics, and assessment
Moody Bible Institute
#5
Chicago, IL · $22,000/yr (net price)
Moody Bible Institute offers a post-graduate Certificate in Marriage, Family, and Couples Counseling that integrates faith-based perspectives with clinical mental health practices. The program is designed for professionals who already hold a master's degree and a clinical license, making it a niche option for Ohio practitioners seeking specialized couples and family training within a Christian framework. At $9,702 in tuition and a hybrid delivery model, the cost of entry is relatively modest.
Certificate in Marriage, Family, and Couples Counseling — Hybrid
Post-master's certificate for licensed professionals
Hybrid campus and online delivery
$539 per credit hour
Biblical integration with clinical counseling
Faculty group interview required for admission
Focuses on specialized family counseling skills
University of Oregon
#6
Eugene, OR · ~$22,000/yr (est.)
The University of Oregon's Couples and Family Therapy program awards a 90-credit Master of Science and carries COAMFTE accreditation. It uses a cohort model that admits 22 to 24 students per year and requires 350 direct client contact hours through the university's Center for Healthy Relationships and community externship sites. A Spanish Language Specialization is available for students interested in bilingual practice. Out-of-state tuition runs about $33,379, and the hybrid format means Ohio students would need to plan for some on-site obligations in Eugene.
Small supervision groups and live therapy observation
Spanish Language Specialization available
Western Kentucky University
#7
Bowling Green, KY · $12,000 – $27,000/yr
Western Kentucky University's CACREP-accredited Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling master's program uses a hybrid format that blends online coursework with clinical training at the on-campus Talley Family Counseling Center. Out-of-state tuition is about $18,340 per year with a net price near $10,990, placing it among the more budget-friendly choices. Ohio students should note the program is accredited by CACREP rather than COAMFTE, so they will need to confirm their coursework satisfies Ohio's MFT-specific educational standards.
Hands-on training at Talley Family Counseling Center
Out-of-state tuition approximately $18,340
Financial support options may be available
Prepares students for state licensure examinations
Texas Woman's University
#8
Denton, TX · $12,000/yr
Texas Woman's University runs a COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy with a hybrid delivery model spread across campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston. Most students finish in about three years, and no GRE is required. Out-of-state tuition is roughly $15,900 per year, and an on-campus interview is part of the admissions process. Because the curriculum is built around Texas licensing board standards, Ohio students should cross-reference requirements with their own state board.
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy — Hybrid
Thesis option available for research-focused students
$50 application fee; 3.0 GPA minimum
Campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston
John Brown University
#9
Siloam Springs, AR · $20,000 – $25,000/yr
John Brown University embeds its Marriage and Family Therapy emphasis within a 60-credit-hour Master of Science in Counseling that holds CACREP accreditation. The hybrid format delivers over 70% of coursework online or during weekend sessions, with clinical work completed in person at JBU's community counseling clinics. There is no application fee and no GRE requirement. Out-of-state tuition is $14,880, and the program reports a 100% clinical placement rate, making it a practical pick for working adults who need flexible scheduling.
Master of Science in Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy — Hybrid
700 total clinical hours (100 practicum, 600 internship)
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
#10
Winona, MN · $12,000/yr (net price)
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota awards a 48-credit Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy that carries COAMFTE accreditation and uses a blended learning format mixing face-to-face and online sessions. Students complete 300 clinical client contact hours, including 150 relational hours, through a supervised practicum. Tuition is $12,474 regardless of residency, and no GRE or MAT is required. The program is built around Minnesota licensing standards, so Ohio applicants should verify alignment with Ohio board expectations before committing.
Most Affordable Online MFT Programs for Ohio Students
When comparing costs, Ohio students should look beyond published tuition rates. Because every program on this list is out of state, the sticker price you see is the out-of-state tuition figure. However, net price, which factors in grants, scholarships, and institutional aid, often tells a very different story. For example, a school with a higher published tuition rate may actually cost less once financial aid is applied. The five programs below are sorted by net price, giving Ohio students the clearest picture of what they are likely to pay out of pocket. Note that net price figures reflect institution-wide averages and your individual cost may vary based on the aid you receive.
School
State
Out-of-State Tuition
Net Price
Median Graduate Debt
Format
Purdue University Northwest
IN
$11,960
$6,079
$21,229
Hybrid
California State University, Northridge
CA
$19,062
$7,021
$13,872
Hybrid
University of South Florida
FL
$21,126
$9,812
$17,988
Hybrid
Western Kentucky University
KY
$18,340
$10,990
$22,095
Hybrid
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
MN
$12,474
$11,704
$21,500
Hybrid
Questions to Ask Yourself
Can you realistically dedicate 15 to 20 hours per week to coursework while holding a job?
Most online MFT programs expect this weekly commitment on top of any employment. If your schedule cannot flex to accommodate evening lectures, discussion posts, and assignments, a part-time track or a later start date may be a smarter move.
Do you have access to approved clinical supervision sites in your part of Ohio?
Online programs handle theory courses remotely, but practicum and internship hours must be completed in person at a site near you. Students in rural areas of Ohio should confirm site availability before enrolling, because a long commute can derail your timeline.
Are you comfortable learning foundational therapy concepts through virtual coursework, knowing hands-on clinical training will happen separately in person?
Online MFT programs split the experience: you will study theory, ethics, and research online, then apply skills face to face during supervised practicum. If you learn best through constant in-person interaction, a hybrid or campus program may suit you better.
Fastest Online MFT Programs You Can Complete Part-Time
Most online MFT master's programs require between 60 and 72 credit hours of coursework, plus a supervised clinical practicum of roughly 500 hours (with at least 100 of those as direct supervision).1 Those requirements, not your motivation level, are what set the floor for how quickly you can finish. Full-time students typically complete their degree in two to two-and-a-half years. Part-time students should plan on three to four years, depending on how many courses they take per term and when their practicum begins. For a broader look at accelerated options, see our guide to Fastest Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degrees.
How Part-Time Tracks Are Structured
Programs designed for working adults build flexibility into every layer of the schedule. Common features include:
Asynchronous coursework: Most lecture content, readings, and discussion boards can be completed on your own time each week, so you are not locked into a daytime class schedule.
Evening synchronous sessions: Live class meetings, role-plays, and case consultations are typically scheduled in the evening to accommodate standard work hours.
Year-round enrollment: Many programs offer fall, spring, and summer terms rather than following a traditional academic calendar, which lets part-time students pick up an extra course during summer and shorten total time to degree.
Accelerated summer terms: Condensed summer sessions allow you to stack credits without increasing your weekly load during the regular academic year.
Syracuse University's online MFT program, for example, is offered exclusively as a part-time track. It requires 60 credits and is designed to be completed in about 36 months. Northwestern University's program covers the same 60-credit requirement but is structured to finish in roughly 24 months at a faster pace. Capella University's MS in Marriage and Family Therapy sits at 72 credits and includes a short residency component.3 You can compare these and other options on our Best Master's Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy page.
What a Realistic Weekly Commitment Looks Like
If you are pursuing an MFT degree while working, expect to dedicate roughly 15 to 20 hours per week to your program when taking two courses per term. That includes watching lectures, completing assignments, participating in live sessions, and studying. Once your clinical practicum begins (typically in the second or third year) you will need to carve out additional hours for client contact and supervision, often 10 to 15 hours per week on top of coursework.
The bottom line: a part-time online MFT program is genuinely designed around the schedules of working professionals. You do not need to quit your job to earn this degree. But you do need to treat it like a serious, multi-year commitment. Plan your practicum timing carefully, talk to your employer about schedule flexibility in advance, and choose a program whose synchronous session times align with your work life. Those practical details matter more than shaving a semester off your timeline.
COAMFTE-Accredited vs. CACREP-Accredited Programs: What Ohio Students Should Know
If you have spent any time researching MFT programs, you have probably noticed two accreditation acronyms showing up repeatedly: COAMFTE and CACREP. Both are respected, nationally recognized accreditors for graduate-level therapy and counseling programs, but they are not interchangeable. The distinction matters for Ohio students because it directly affects how smoothly you can pursue LMFT licensure in the state.
What Each Accreditor Actually Covers
COAMFTE, the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education, accredits programs exclusively in marriage and family therapy. Its curriculum centers on family systems theory, couples and family therapy techniques, and relational ethics.2 Think of it as purpose-built for the MFT profession.
CACREP, the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, accredits a broader range of counseling specialties, including clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, and addiction counseling. Its coursework emphasizes individual counseling methods, assessment, multicultural competence, and career counseling. A CACREP program can touch on couples and family work, but the overall orientation is wider.
Clinical Hour Requirements at a Glance
COAMFTE: A minimum of 300 direct client contact hours, with at least 200 of those involving relational (couples or family) therapy. Supervision must come from a licensed MFT supervisor.
CACREP: A minimum of 100 practicum hours (40 of which must be direct client contact) plus 600 internship hours. There is no specific requirement for relational therapy hours, and supervision can come from any licensed mental health professional.
The relational hours requirement is one of the clearest dividing lines. COAMFTE programs guarantee that graduates have substantial, documented experience working with couples and families, which is exactly what the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board (CSWMFT Board) wants to see in LMFT applicants.
Can a CACREP Graduate Become an LMFT in Ohio?
This is the question Ohio students ask most often, and the answer is nuanced. A degree from a COAMFTE-accredited program receives outright recognition from the Ohio CSWMFT Board.2 The board treats it as meeting the educational requirements for LMFT licensure without additional scrutiny.
A degree from a CACREP-accredited clinical mental health counseling program does not receive that same automatic recognition. Instead, the board conducts a course-by-course audit to determine whether your transcript contains the specific MFT-related content and relational clinical hours the state requires. Some applicants pass this review; others discover gaps that need to be filled through additional coursework or supervised experience. The process is slower, less predictable, and can add both time and cost to your path.
The natural license pathway for CACREP graduates is LPC or LPCC (Licensed Professional Counselor or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor), not LMFT. If you want to understand the broader differences between these credentials, see our comparison of LMFT vs. LMHC. If your goal from the start is to practice as a licensed marriage and family therapist in Ohio, a COAMFTE-accredited program provides the most direct and reliable route.
Typical Career Paths
COAMFTE graduates: Private practice as a couples or family therapist, community mental health agencies specializing in family services, employee assistance programs, faith-based counseling centers.
CACREP graduates: Broader mental health counseling roles in clinics, hospitals, schools, and substance abuse treatment facilities. Some graduates specialize in couples and family work, but the credential is designed for a wider scope of practice.
Bottom Line for Ohio Students
If you know you want the LMFT credential in Ohio, prioritize COAMFTE-accredited programs. They align directly with what the state board expects, spare you from a potentially lengthy transcript review, and ensure your clinical training is grounded in the relational, systems-based approach that defines the MFT profession. For a complete overview of the steps involved, review our guide on how to become a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. CACREP programs are excellent for students whose goals lean toward general counseling or who want to keep multiple licensure options open, but they are not the most efficient path to an Ohio LMFT license.
How to Become a Licensed MFT in Ohio
Earning your LMFT in Ohio is a structured, multi-step process that typically takes two to three years of graduate study plus at least two years of supervised post-degree experience. The good news: you can complete a qualifying master's degree online and still meet every Ohio licensing requirement, as long as the program covers the clinical and supervision hours the state demands. Below is the key milestone that defines the post-degree phase, followed by a breakdown of each step.
Licensure Steps for Ohio MFTs: The Details
Earning your degree is a major milestone, but the path to full LMFT licensing requirements in Ohio involves several additional steps that require careful planning. Here is a closer look at each phase, with practical details that online students should pay special attention to.
Supervised Clinical Hours
Ohio requires applicants for the Marriage and Family Therapist license to complete a substantial period of post-degree supervised clinical experience. Expect to accumulate at least two years of supervised work, during which you must log a minimum of 1,000 hours of direct client contact under a qualified supervisor. Your supervisor generally must hold an active IMFT or LMFT credential (or equivalent) and meet the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board's approval standards. Before you begin accruing hours, confirm your supervisor's eligibility with the board to avoid delays.
Ohio does offer a pathway for working under supervision before you earn your full license. Graduates can apply for a supervised practice designation that allows them to provide therapy while completing the required hours. This interim step keeps your career moving forward and lets you gain income-producing clinical experience right after graduation.
Clinical Placements for Online Students in Ohio
Practicum and internship hours are completed in person, even for students enrolled in online programs. Accredited programs typically require university approval of both the clinical site and the on-site supervisor before you can begin logging hours. Most online programs maintain a field placement coordination office that helps students identify appropriate sites in or near their home communities. For a deeper look at what this experience involves, read about what to expect in your MFT clinical internship.
Ohio-based programs like the University of Akron, which operates the Clinic for Individual and Family Counseling and has long-standing relationships with community agencies in the Akron area and beyond3, and Ohio State University, which runs the Couple and Family Therapy Clinic alongside multiple field placements4, illustrate the kind of infrastructure that supports in-state practicum experiences. If you are enrolled in an out-of-state online program, your university's placement team will typically work with you to secure a site in Ohio, though the process may take longer and require more initiative on your part.
Timeline from Degree to Full Licensure
The timeline varies, but most graduates should plan on roughly two to three years between completing their degree and earning a full LMFT license. The biggest variable is how quickly you can accumulate the required supervised hours, which depends on your caseload and whether you work full time or part time. Students who secure a clinical position immediately after graduation and carry a full caseload tend to finish on the shorter end of that range. Gaps in employment, part-time schedules, or difficulty finding an approved supervisor can extend the process.
Reciprocity and Endorsement Options
If you began your licensure journey in another state, Ohio does provide an endorsement pathway that may allow you to transfer your credentials. You will need to demonstrate that your education and supervised experience meet Ohio's standards, and the board evaluates each application individually. Requirements can differ depending on the originating state's standards, so contact the Ohio board early in the process to understand exactly what documentation you will need. This option can save considerable time for professionals relocating to Ohio who have already completed some or all of their supervised hours elsewhere.
Ohio does not currently host any in-state MFT graduate certificate programs, but that should not slow you down. Online programs from regionally accredited, COAMFTE or CACREP approved schools fully satisfy Ohio licensing requirements. Better yet, online students complete their practicum and clinical hours locally in Ohio, so your hands-on training stays rooted in the communities where you plan to practice, even while your coursework is delivered remotely.
MFT Career Outlook and Earnings in Ohio
Ohio's marriage and family therapy workforce is modest in size but offers strong earning potential, especially for experienced clinicians. With roughly 710 MFTs employed across the state, demand continues to grow as mental health parity laws expand insurance coverage, telehealth removes geographic barriers to care, and an aging population increases the need for family systems support. Nationally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth for MFTs at a rate much faster than average through 2034, with an estimated 9,800 annual openings. Ohio students who earn their degrees through online programs can position themselves to enter this high demand field without relocating. The table below breaks down Ohio specific wage data alongside the national median for context.
Wage Percentile
Ohio Annual Salary (2023)
10th Percentile
$40,230
25th Percentile
$41,600
Median (50th Percentile)
$63,880
75th Percentile
$96,220
90th Percentile
$154,770
How to Choose the Right Online MFT Program as an Ohio Student
Choosing the right online MFT program takes more than browsing tuition pages. Because Ohio does not currently host an in-state MFT degree program, you will almost certainly enroll in an out-of-state online or hybrid program, and that makes your decision framework even more important. Use the five factors below to narrow your options with confidence.
1. Accreditation Type and Ohio Licensure Alignment
Not every MFT degree satisfies Ohio's licensing requirements. The Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board (CSWMFT Board) requires a graduate degree that includes specific coursework in marriage and family therapy, supervised clinical hours, and content areas defined in Ohio Administrative Code. COAMFTE-accredited programs are widely recognized and tend to map cleanly onto those requirements, but some CACREP-accredited programs with an MFT emphasis may also qualify. Before you commit tuition dollars, contact the Ohio CSWMFT Board directly and confirm that the program you are considering produces a degree the board will accept. This single step can save you years of frustration.
2. Total Cost and Return on Investment
Tuition for the online MFT programs available to Ohio students ranges widely, from under $10,000 per year at public universities charging in-state rates to more than $50,000 per year at selective private institutions. Program-level earnings data is not yet published for most MFT master's programs, so lean on institution-wide graduate outcomes as a proxy when comparing cost to earning potential. For a deeper look at the numbers, review our analysis of the ROI of an MFT degree. A program with higher tuition may still deliver strong long-term value if its graduates consistently land well-paying clinical positions, while a cheaper program that takes longer to complete can erode those savings. Weigh total program cost (tuition, fees, and any required on-campus residencies) against realistic salary projections for licensed MFTs in Ohio.
3. Clinical Placement Support in Ohio
Every MFT program requires hundreds of supervised clinical hours, and completing those hours from Ohio means you need a program that actively helps students secure placements outside the school's home state. Ask admissions offices pointed questions: Does the program have existing site agreements in Ohio? Will a dedicated placement coordinator assist you, or are you on your own? Programs like Northwestern University, for example, employ placement specialists who help remote students arrange fieldwork locally. This kind of support can make or break your experience.
4. Part-Time and Flexible Scheduling
Many Ohio students pursuing an MFT degree are working adults, so scheduling flexibility matters. Look for programs that offer asynchronous coursework, evening live sessions, or an explicit part-time track. Completion timelines for part-time students typically run 30 to 36 months, but some programs allow even longer windows. Make sure the part-time option does not limit your access to clinical placement support or financial aid.
5. Program Reputation and Completion Rates
A program's graduation and completion rates tell you how well it supports students through to the finish line. High attrition can signal inadequate advising, rigid scheduling, or poor student services. Check completion data through the program's accrediting body and ask for the licensure exam pass rate among recent graduates. A program that consistently produces candidates who pass the national MFT exam on the first attempt is a program that prepared them well.
A Quick Note on Financial Aid
Online MFT programs housed at regionally accredited institutions are eligible for federal financial aid through FAFSA, regardless of whether you live in the school's home state. Beyond federal loans and grants, explore employer tuition assistance if you are already working in a clinical or human-services role. The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy also offers minority fellowships that can offset costs for qualifying applicants. Every dollar of aid you secure reduces the pressure on your post-graduation earnings.
Frequently Asked Questions About MFT Programs for Ohio Students
Below are the questions Ohio students ask most often when researching marriage and family therapy programs. For deeper detail on any topic, refer to the relevant sections earlier in this article.
What are the requirements to become a licensed MFT in Ohio?
Ohio requires a master's degree (at least 60 semester hours in a qualifying program), 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience under an approved supervisor, and a passing score on the national MFT licensing examination. The Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board oversees the full process. See the licensure section above for a step by step breakdown.
Are there COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs in Ohio?
As of 2026, no COAMFTE accredited MFT programs are based in Ohio. However, several COAMFTE accredited online programs from other states accept Ohio residents and meet Ohio licensing requirements. CACREP accredited programs with a marriage, couple, and family counseling track are also a strong option. The accreditation comparison section above explains the differences in detail.
Can you get an MFT degree online and still get licensed in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio does not require that your degree come from an in state institution. Graduates of accredited online MFT or marriage and family counseling programs can apply for licensure as long as the degree meets the state's coursework, credit hour, and clinical training standards. Many students complete didactic work online and arrange practicum or internship hours locally.
How long does it take to complete an online MFT program?
Most online MFT master's programs take two to three years of full time study. Part time tracks, which are popular with working adults, typically run three to four years. Accelerated formats at some schools can bring the timeline closer to two years. Check the fastest programs section earlier in this article for specific options.
What is the difference between marriage and family therapy and marriage and family counseling?
The two titles describe closely related disciplines. Marriage and family therapy (MFT) programs are typically accredited by COAMFTE, while marriage and family counseling tracks usually fall under CACREP accredited counseling programs. Both prepare graduates to work with couples and families, and both can lead to Ohio licensure. The key differences lie in accrediting body, theoretical emphasis, and program structure.
How much does an online MFT degree cost?
Online MFT program costs vary widely. Among programs available to Ohio students, total tuition ranges from roughly $25,000 at the most affordable institutions to $70,000 or more at private universities. The affordability table earlier in this article highlights the least expensive options. Financial aid, employer tuition assistance, and in state tuition agreements can reduce out of pocket costs significantly.
More Online MFT Programs Available to Ohio Students
These additional online programs accept Ohio students and offer unique specializations or competitive tuition. Browse the full directory below for more options beyond our top 10 ranking.
Offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy with concentrations in Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, and Integrated Behavioral Healthcare. Hybrid format with a focus on rural mental health and trauma-informed care.
CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Counseling with a Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling concentration. Hybrid format includes three-day campus residency. Emphasizes social justice and offers post-graduate certificate options.
60-credit Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy with 300 clinical contact hours. Courses offered at Dobbs Ferry campus with full-time and part-time options. Focuses on diverse therapy areas including substance abuse and intimate partner dynamics.
Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling. 60-credit program with 100 practicum hours and 600 internship hours at on-campus clinics. Emphasizes family systems theory and evidence-based counseling skills.
CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Counseling with a Marriage & Family Therapy concentration. 60-credit hybrid program with clinical internship opportunities. Nearly 100% post-graduation placement rate.
COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Couple and Family Therapy. 67-credit program with 500 client contact hours and 100 supervision hours. Includes thesis and oral defense. Small cohort sizes and hybrid format.
COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. 63-credit program with flexible evening schedule. No GRE or GMAT required. Includes practicum and internship components.
Online COAMFTE-accredited Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. 60-credit part-time program over three years with live evening classes. Includes 500-hour clinical practicum and 40% tuition scholarship.
Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with Marriage and Family Therapy emphasis. Hybrid format with cohort-based model and on-site Community Counseling Center. Offers specializations including Psychological Trauma and Attachment Theory.
COAMFTE-accredited Master of Family Therapy. 90-credit program focusing on trauma and addiction. Includes 500 direct client contact hours and 100 supervision hours. Most courses on campus with some online.
COAMFTE-accredited Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. 60-credit program with small classes, evening and weekend sessions. Includes practicum and internship at the Regis Center for Counseling, Family and Play Therapy.
60-credit hybrid Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling. Prepares for Pennsylvania LPC licensure with biblical integration. Includes 800 clinical hours and practicum/internship requirements.
60-credit Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy. State-registered program preparing for New York licensure. Blended learning format with online synchronous and in-person courses. Focus on contextual and systemic therapy.
COAMFTE-accredited Master of Science in Psychology with Marriage and Family Therapy concentration. 60-credit, two-year program with evening classes. Includes university-based clinic training and 500 hours supervised practice.
12-credit Graduate Certificate in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling. Online and on-campus options. Focuses on couples therapy, sexual dysfunction treatment, and addiction counseling. $730 per credit hour.
