Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
Pennsylvania is an excellent state for aspiring Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs), offering a strong mental health workforce and a variety of accredited educational options. With a high demand for licensed MFTs, especially in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and rural communities with limited mental health resources, the state provides numerous career opportunities. Several universities in Pennsylvania offer COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs, ensuring that students meet both state and national licensure requirements. These programs emphasize hands-on clinical training, requiring students to complete supervised clinical hours in hospitals, private practices, nonprofit counseling centers, and community mental health clinics. Additionally, students have the flexibility to choose from on-campus, hybrid, and online learning formats, making it easier for both full-time students and working professionals to pursue their MFT degrees.
In this guide
2026 Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Programs in Pennsylvania
Eastern University
Saint Davids, PA - Private 4-year - eastern.edu
Master's - MA in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern University's online Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy offers a comprehensive 60-credit curriculum designed for aspiring mental health professionals. This flexible program emphasizes systemic thinking and faith-integrated approaches to holistic healing, with coursework tailored for busy schedules through full-time or part-time options. At $450 per credit, it provides affordable access to clinical training focused on cultural humility and transformative therapeutic techniques. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program, making it accessible to diverse students seeking to work with individuals, couples, and families.
- 100% Online Program
- 60 credits total
- 2 years full-time
- $450 per credit tuition
- August start term
- Part-time options available
- Faith-integrated curriculum
- Clinical professional instructors
- Cultural humility emphasis
- Systemic therapy approach
Doctorate - Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern University's Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT) is a 60-credit doctoral program that uniquely blends advanced family systems theory with theological insights. This interdisciplinary approach empowers church leaders and mental health professionals to drive meaningful change in families and communities through practical theology and cutting-edge clinical practice. The program includes practicum and doctoral project components to develop advanced leadership and therapeutic expertise for professional licensure. No entrance exam is required for this doctorate, focusing instead on transformative skill development.
- 60-credit doctoral program
- Integrates theology and clinical practice
- Advances leadership and therapy skills
- Focuses on family systems theory
- Practicum and doctoral project included
- Courses explore diverse therapy topics
- Prepares for professional licensure
Doctorate - PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern University's 100% online PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy prepares advanced professionals for careers in counseling, research, and leadership. This 60-credit doctoral program integrates psychological and theological perspectives to develop sophisticated mental health skills, with a focus on holistic wellness for individuals, couples, and families. Completed in 4-6 years at $450 per credit, it emphasizes research through a dissertation and prepares graduates for academia, clinical settings, and pastoral care. No entrance exam is required for this research-focused doctorate, supporting flexible advancement.
- 100% Online Program
- 60 Credit Doctoral Degree
- 4-6 Years Completion Time
- $450 per Credit Tuition
- Christian Psychology Integration
- Research-Focused Dissertation
- Leadership Career Preparation
- Starts in August Annually
- Pastoral and Clinical Focus
- Advanced Counseling Skills Training
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu
Master's - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: Trauma and Addiction - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Drexel University's Master of Family Therapy program specializes in trauma and addiction, offering a 90-credit, COAMFTE-accredited hybrid curriculum. Students develop expertise in evidence-based techniques for treating trauma and addiction through extensive clinical practicum, requiring at least 500 direct client hours. The program includes telehealth training and prepares graduates for Pennsylvania MFT licensure, focusing on systemic perspectives and diverse therapy approaches. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program, enhancing accessibility for aspiring therapists.
- 90-credit master's degree
- COAMFTE accredited program
- Full-time campus program
- Some online course options
- Trauma and addiction focus
- Clinical practicum required
- Minimum 500 direct client hours
- Telehealth practice training
- Pennsylvania MFT licensure eligible
- Diverse therapy approach training
Master's - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: LGBT and Specific Populations - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Drexel University's Master of Family Therapy program concentrates on LGBT and specific populations, providing a 90-credit, COAMFTE-accredited hybrid format. It emphasizes advanced skills in addressing complex health issues, trauma, and addiction within diverse communities, supported by interprofessional healthcare training and a clinical simulation center. Students complete a minimum of 500 clinical hours, gaining hands-on experience for licensure eligibility in Pennsylvania. This master's program does not require an entrance exam, facilitating entry for those dedicated to inclusive family therapy practices.
- 90-credit Master's degree
- COAMFTE-accredited program
- Full-time campus and online courses
- Trauma and addiction focus
- Minimum 500 clinical hours required
- Pennsylvania MFT licensure eligible
- Specialized training with LGBT populations
- Interprofessional healthcare training
- Multiple therapy approach models
- On-campus clinical simulation center
Messiah University
Mechanicsburg, PA - Private 4-year - messiah.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Messiah University's Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling is a CACREP-accredited hybrid program that prepares students for leadership roles in counseling. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical field experiences, delivered through a flexible online format ideal for working professionals. With courses starting every 8 weeks, students can complete the 60-credit program in about two years at $780 per credit. This program does not require an entrance exam, focusing on developing skills to serve diverse clients in relationship and family counseling settings.
- CACREP accredited program
- $780 per credit
- 60 total credits
- 2-year completion time
- Online course track
- Courses start every 8 weeks
- Designed for working professionals
- Prepare for counseling leadership
Geneva College
Beaver Falls, PA - Private 4-year - geneva.edu
Master's - M.A. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Geneva College's M.A. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling is a 60-credit hybrid program that blends online and on-campus learning. It emphasizes a faith-based approach rooted in Reformed Presbyterian traditions, integrating biblical perspectives with evidence-based clinical skills. Students complete a 100-hour direct service practicum and 600-hour internship, gaining hands-on experience in relational therapy. The program focuses on family systems, therapeutic interventions, and ethical practices, preparing graduates for licensure and careers supporting couples and families. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program, making it accessible for aspiring counselors.
- 60-credit Marriage & Family Track
- Online and On-Campus Options
- Faith-Based Counseling Approach
- Comprehensive Practicum Experience
- 100-hour Direct Service Requirement
- Internship with 600 Clinical Hours
- Biblical Worldview Integration
- Professional Ethics Training
- Advanced Counseling Skills Development
Master's - M.A. in Counseling
Concentration: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Geneva College's CACREP-accredited M.A. in Counseling with a Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling concentration offers a flexible 60-credit hybrid format, completable in 2-4 years. At $699 per credit hour, it provides an affordable path to advanced training, integrating Christian perspectives into comprehensive counseling techniques. Students undertake a 600-hour internship, developing skills to address complex family dynamics and mental health issues. This program prepares graduates for diverse roles in agencies and communities, emphasizing compassionate, Christ-centered care. No entrance exam is required, enhancing accessibility for professionals seeking meaningful careers in marriage and family therapy.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- Online and Campus Options
- 60 Credit Hour Program
- 2-4 Years Completion Time
- $699 Per Credit Hour
- Marriage, Family Counseling Concentration
- 600 Hour Internship Required
- Christian Perspective Integration
- Multiple Delivery Formats Available
- Comprehensive Counseling Curriculum
Lancaster Bible College
Lancaster, PA - Private 4-year - lbc.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lancaster Bible College offers a 60-credit Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling through a hybrid format in Lancaster. This program uniquely blends biblical principles with contemporary therapeutic strategies, preparing students for licensure and diverse professional settings. It requires 200+ clinical practicum hours and includes a candidacy interview process, but does not require an entrance exam. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Counselor Examination, with multiple field placement options available.
- 60-credit Master of Arts program
- Hybrid learning in Lancaster
- Biblical integration approach
- Licensure preparation focus
- Three-tier course structure
- 200+ clinical practicum hours
- MMPI-2 personality assessment
- Candidacy interview process
- Multiple field placement options
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - jefferson.edu
Master's - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: Sex Therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on Sex Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University's Master of Family Therapy is a two-year, 66-credit campus program that builds expertise in addressing sexual health within family contexts. Students learn culturally competent practices to handle trauma, medical issues, and diverse relationship challenges. The curriculum includes AASECT-approved continuing education and emphasizes a bio-psychosocial framework. No entrance exam is required, and the program offers intensive clinical training, preparing graduates for transformative roles in therapy with a strong emphasis on sex therapy specialization.
- 66 total credit hours
- Two-year full-time program
- Center City campus location
- COAMFTE core curriculum model
- Two specialty track options
- Sex Therapy and Family Therapy tracks
- AASECT continuing education approved
- Culturally competent practice focus
- Diverse clinical practice areas
Master's - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: Family Therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's Master of Family Therapy with a Family Therapy concentration is a two-year, 66-credit program on campus that trains students in diverse therapeutic approaches. It focuses on culturally competent practice to manage family dynamics, trauma, and medical contexts. The curriculum integrates bio-psychosocial perspectives and offers tracks in sex and family therapy, with AASECT continuing education credits. No entrance exam is required, and graduates emerge as empathetic practitioners ready to tackle contemporary relationship challenges in mental health.
- 66-credit master's program
- Two-year full-time format
- Center City campus location
- COAMFTE core curriculum model
- Two specialty track options
- Sex therapy and family therapy tracks
- Culturally competent practice focus
- AASECT CE credit approved
- Diverse clinical practice areas
- Bio-psychosocial approach
Graduate Certificate - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: Couple and Family Therapy Track - Campus Based - Visit Website
Thomas Jefferson University's Master of Family Therapy with a Couple and Family Therapy Track is a two-year, 66-credit campus program that prepares students for advanced clinical practice. Using a holistic bio-psychosocial approach, it emphasizes culturally competent care for diverse populations. The program includes specialized tracks in sex therapy and family therapy, offering rigorous training in complex family dynamics. Accredited by COAMFTE, it focuses on innovative therapeutic methods and does not require an entrance exam. This program is ideal for those seeking comprehensive skills in couple and family counseling.
- Master of Family Therapy degree
- 66 total credit hours
- Two-year full-time program
- Center City campus location
- COAMFTE core curriculum model
- Two specialty track options
- Culturally competent practice focus
- Diverse clinical practice areas
Graduate Certificate - Master of Family Therapy
Concentration: Sex Therapy Track - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Sex Therapy Track in Thomas Jefferson University's Master of Family Therapy provides a rigorous two-year, 66-credit education on campus. It delves into complex family dynamics, medical family therapy, trauma, and family violence through a culturally competent lens. With a bio-psychosocial approach, students gain advanced clinical skills without needing an entrance exam. The program includes AASECT-approved elements and specialized training, equipping therapists to address diverse relationship issues effectively in a transformative learning environment.
- 66-credit Master's program
- Two-year full-time format
- Center City campus location
- COAMFTE core curriculum model
- Two specialty tracks available
- Culturally competent practice focus
- Sex Therapy and Family Therapy tracks
- AASECT continuing education approved
- Bio-psychosocial learning approach
- Advanced clinical training
La Salle University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - lasalle.edu
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy (M.A.)
Campus Based - Visit Website
La Salle University's Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy provides a transformative educational pathway for aspiring mental health professionals, blending rigorous coursework in systems theory with hands-on clinical practice. This COAMFTE-accredited program includes specialized courses in children and adolescent therapy, alongside a 12-month clinical placement that aligns with state and national licensure requirements. Graduates are prepared for diverse therapeutic careers and potential doctoral studies, with no entrance exam required for admission to this on-campus program.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 12-month Clinical Placement
- Licensure Preparation Focus
- On-Campus Master's Program
- Systems Theory Foundation
- Pennsylvania Licensure Ready
- Children/Adolescent Therapy Courses
- Doctoral Study Preparation
Graduate Certificate - Marriage and Family Therapy, M.A.
Campus Based - Visit Website
La Salle University's Marriage and Family Therapy Master's program delivers comprehensive professional training through on-campus instruction, preparing students for licensure in Pennsylvania and nationally. This COAMFTE-accredited curriculum emphasizes systemic theory and advanced clinical skills, reinforced by a mandatory 12-month clinical placement. Graduates are equipped for diverse clinical settings and doctoral study preparation, with no entrance exam required for admission. The program's focus on career growth is supported by faculty with extensive clinical expertise.
- Master's degree program
- On-campus instruction
- COAMFTE accredited program
- 12-month clinical placement
- Meets Pennsylvania licensure requirements
- Prepares for national licensure exam
- Courses in systemic therapy
- Career growth potential
- Faculty with clinical expertise
Chestnut Hill College
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - chc.edu
Graduate Certificate - Master of Science in Clinical and Counseling Psychology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Chestnut Hill College's Master of Science in Clinical and Counseling Psychology offers a Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) concentration, focusing on family systems theories and counseling techniques across 24 credits. This hybrid program prepares graduates for LMFT licensure in Pennsylvania through supervised internships and flexible evening or weekend classes at two campuses. No entrance exam is required, and students can complete the degree in two to three years, gaining practical experience for diverse therapeutic roles.
- 24-credit MFT concentration
- Licensure preparation for LMFT
- Flexible evening/weekend classes
- Two campus locations
- Hybrid learning options
- Two to three year completion
- Supervised clinical internships
Arcadia University
Glenside, PA - Private 4-year - arcadia.edu
Graduate Certificate - Child and Family Therapy Graduate Certificate
Concentration: Child and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website
Arcadia University's Graduate Certificate in Child and Family Therapy provides specialized training for mental health professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in youth and family treatment. This graduate-level program focuses exclusively on child and family therapy, emphasizing evidence-based interventions for childhood disorders and family systems approaches. Students develop advanced skills in cultural sensitivity and clinical assessment under the guidance of practicing clinicians. The program requires no entrance exam and is designed for professionals with existing master's degrees, offering flexible training to expand career opportunities in counseling settings.
- Graduate-level specialized certificate
- For practicing mental health professionals
- Evidence-based therapeutic training
- Cultural sensitivity emphasis
- Taught by practicing clinicians
- Focuses on child/family mental health
- Advanced assessment techniques
- Empirically supported psychotherapies
Pennsylvania’s Quickest MFT Programs
- Lewis & Clark College’s MFT program can be completed in two years, with structured clinical training and coursework integration.
- George Fox University’s MFT program follows a 2.5-year curriculum, allowing students to gain real-world clinical experience while completing their degree.
- Online COAMFTE-accredited programs from neighboring states allow Oregon students to accelerate coursework while completing required supervised hours locally.
- Students with prior psychology or counseling coursework may transfer credits, reducing their total program length.
For students seeking a fast-track to licensure, enrolling in full-time programs with early clinical placements ensures an efficient path to professional practice. The fastest MFT degree programs can be found on our guide here.
Pennsylvania’s Cheapest MFT Programs
- La Salle University offers one of the most affordable COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs in the state, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious students.
- Thomas Jefferson University and Drexel University provide financial aid, graduate assistantships, and tuition assistance programs, helping students reduce tuition expenses.
- Loan forgiveness programs for LMFTs working in underserved areas help students offset tuition costs while gaining valuable clinical experience.
- Online and hybrid MFT programs may provide competitive tuition rates, offering financial flexibility for working students.
Students prioritizing affordability should explore state and federal tuition assistance programs, employer tuition reimbursement, and scholarships to lower out-of-pocket education costs.
How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in Pennsylvania
1. Earn a Master’s or Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Complete a COAMFTE-accredited or regionally accredited MFT program that meets Pennsylvania’s licensure requirements.
- Ensure coursework covers family therapy models, ethics, trauma-informed care, and clinical assessment techniques.
2. Complete 3,000 Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience
- Gain post-graduate clinical hours, with 1,500 hours of direct client contact under the supervision of a licensed MFT.
- Work in approved therapy settings, such as mental health agencies, hospitals, private practices, or telehealth services.
3. Pass the National MFT Examination
- Successfully take and pass the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) National MFT Exam.
- Demonstrate competency in relationship counseling, ethics, and evidence-based therapy interventions.
4. Apply for Licensure Through the Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors
- Submit official transcripts, proof of supervised hours, and national exam scores for licensure approval.
- Complete any additional state-specific licensing requirements, including background checks and continuing education requirements.
5. Maintain Licensure with Continuing Education
- Complete 30 continuing education (CE) hours every two years, including coursework in professional ethics, trauma-informed care, and advanced clinical techniques.
- Attend professional development workshops, online training programs, and therapy conferences to stay updated on best practices in family therapy.
Following these steps ensures a smooth transition from student to licensed LMFT, qualifying professionals to work in private practice, behavioral health clinics, and school-based therapy programs. Becoming an LMFT differs slightly by state but if you want to check out our full guide of becoming an LMFT you can start to plan your journey to licensure.
LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers strong career opportunities for LMFTs, with demand increasing in urban centers, rural communities, and telehealth services. The average salary for LMFTs in Pennsylvania is $67,800 per year, with experienced professionals earning over $95,000 annually.
Where LMFTs Work in Pennsylvania
- Private practice therapists in Pennsylvania often earn higher salaries and have flexible work schedules.
- Community mental health centers and hospitals employ LMFTs for integrated behavioral health services.
- School-based mental health programs allow LMFTs to work with children, adolescents, and families in educational settings.
- Teletherapy expansion in Pennsylvania provides additional job opportunities, allowing therapists to serve clients remotely while maintaining a flexible work schedule.
With competitive salaries, diverse career paths, and increasing demand for mental health services, Pennsylvania remains a top destination for LMFT professionals.
Pennsylvania offers several high-quality MFT programs, structured licensure pathways, and expanding career opportunities for licensed therapists. With affordable tuition rates, flexible program options, and financial incentives for therapists working in underserved areas, Pennsylvania is an excellent location for aspiring LMFTs.
For students seeking a well-rounded, cost-effective, and career-driven MFT education, Pennsylvania’s programs provide the clinical training, licensure preparation, and real-world experience necessary to succeed in private practice, community mental health, and behavioral health organizations. Whether working in urban therapy centers or supporting rural mental health initiatives, LMFTs in Pennsylvania play a crucial role in strengthening family relationships and improving mental health outcomes across the state.
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