Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Degree Programs in Utah 2025
Utah presents an excellent opportunity for those pursuing a career in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT), with programs that provide strong clinical training and licensure preparation. The state’s expanding mental health sector has created a growing demand for licensed MFTs. As Utah’s population continues to rise, the need for qualified therapists to support individuals, couples, and families has never been greater.
Aspiring LMFTs in Utah can choose from several COAMFTE-accredited programs, ensuring they receive rigorous academic instruction and hands-on clinical experience. These programs emphasize family systems therapy, evidence-based interventions, and trauma-informed care, preparing graduates for careers in private practice, community counseling centers, hospitals, and telehealth services. With flexible learning formats available, including on-campus, hybrid, and online programs, students can find an option that fits their schedule and career goals.
In this guide
2025 Best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Programs in Utah
Looking for the best Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) programs in Utah? marriagefamilytherapist.org has done the research for you. We ranked the top programs to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student success. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, we've got you covered. Check out our rankings to see which programs stand out. Learn how we ranked these programs.
Utah State University
Logan, UT - Public 4-Year - usu.edu
Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Utah State University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) program is designed for those aiming to excel in the field of family therapy. Offering both thesis and non-thesis tracks, this COAMFTE-accredited program ensures students are well-prepared for licensure in Utah. With a focus on hands-on clinical training, students tackle real-world mental health and relationship issues. The curriculum emphasizes cultural competence, ethical practice, and specialized areas like trauma and sex therapy. Application deadline is December 15, making early preparation essential for prospective students.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- Two Degree Options Available
- Meets Utah Licensure Requirements
- Application Deadline: December 15
- Specialized Training Areas
- Strong Clinical Supervision Focus
- Research and Professional Development
- Comprehensive Therapy Skills Training
- Multiple Career Path Options
- Student-Centric Learning Approach
Master's - Master of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, MFT Specialization
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Human Development and Family Studies with an MFT Specialization at Utah State University blends rigorous academic training with practical clinical experience. This program stands out for its COAMFTE accreditation and dual pathways—thesis and non-thesis—tailored to meet professional licensure requirements in Utah. Students delve into specialized areas such as trauma and sex therapy, benefiting from a curriculum that prioritizes clinical excellence and research opportunities. The December 15 application deadline underscores the program's competitive nature, inviting dedicated candidates to apply.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- Two Degree Options Available
- Thesis and Non-Thesis Tracks
- Application Deadline: December 15
- Specializations: Sex Therapy, Trauma
- Strong Clinical Training Focus
- Meet Utah Licensure Requirements
- Diverse Practical Experiences
- Research Opportunities Included
- Student-Centered Approach
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, UT - Public 4-Year - suu.edu
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Utah University is crafting a forward-thinking Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) graduate program, set to nurture empathetic and adept mental health counselors. This nascent program emphasizes a robust curriculum covering therapeutic methodologies, the intricacies of family dynamics, and the nuances of interpersonal relationships. With a commitment to practical learning, students will immerse themselves in professional internships, dedicating 10-20 hours weekly, to hone their skills in real-world settings. Aimed at fostering expertise to navigate multifaceted family and relationship issues, the program is on a path to accreditation, ensuring high standards. A 3.0 GPA is required for admission, reflecting the program's dedication to excellence. Located in the scenic Cedar City, UT, it offers a unique blend of academic rigor and natural beauty.
- Emerging MFT graduate program
- Part of Family Life Department
- Professional internship available
- Program in development stage
- Requires 3.0 GPA
- Located in Cedar City, UT
- 10-20 hours internship weekly
- Focus on program accreditation
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT - Public 4-Year - uvu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
Utah Valley University offers a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy designed to equip students with the skills needed to address the complexities of modern relationships. This campus-based program spans 54 credit hours, blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience through supervised clinical practica. It emphasizes a systemic therapy approach, preparing graduates for professional licensure while focusing on ethical practice and cultural competence. With a requirement of a minimum 3.0 GPA, the program is tailored for those aiming to make a difference in diverse client populations through evidence-based interventions. Highlights include comprehensive clinical training and a capstone project, ensuring readiness for the mental health field.
- 54 total credit hours
- Professional licensure preparation
- Comprehensive clinical practica
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Systemic therapy approach
- Diverse client population focus
- Practicum hours requirement
- Capstone project completion
- Supervised clinical experience
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Utah Tech University
Saint George, UT - Public 4-Year - utahtech.edu
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy, MS
Campus Based - Visit Website
Utah Tech University offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy designed to cultivate skilled therapists adept at addressing complex family dynamics. This 51-credit program blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, focusing on systemic therapy and multicultural competence. Students engage in hands-on practicum experiences, honing skills in child therapy and ethical practice. The curriculum prepares graduates for licensure, emphasizing research and clinical proficiency. Admission criteria include a bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, and GRE or MAT scores. Highlights include a thesis option and a focus on preventive strategies in family therapy. 'Requires GRE or MAT'
- 51-credit comprehensive MFT program
- Two cohort graduation plans
- Practicum experience included
- Bachelor's degree prerequisite
- GRE or MAT score requirement
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Multicultural therapy focus
- Prepares for licensure exam
- Clinical skills development
- Systemic therapy perspective
- Ethics and professional training
- Research application emphasized
- Child therapy specialization
- Thesis preparation included
- Interview part of admissions
Other MFT Programs Available in Utah
Utah provides several accredited MFT programs, ensuring students receive rigorous academic training and practical clinical experience to meet licensure requirements.
Top Accredited MFT Programs in Utah
Brigham Young University – Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
- COAMFTE-accredited program that prepares students for LMFT licensure in Utah.
- Provides advanced training in systemic therapy, trauma-informed care, and couples counseling.
- Students gain clinical experience through internships in community clinics, private practices, and mental health agencies.
Utah State University – Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
- COAMFTE-accredited program focused on evidence-based therapy, ethical practice, and clinical research.
- Offers internship opportunities in hospitals, outpatient therapy centers, and private counseling practices.
- Provides a strong foundation in relationship therapy, mental health disorders, and family intervention techniques.
University of Utah – Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
- COAMFTE-accredited program emphasizing systemic family therapy, trauma counseling, and relational interventions.
- Includes internships and practicum experiences, allowing students to gain real-world therapy experience before graduation.
- Offers faculty mentorship and career support, ensuring students are fully prepared for LMFT licensure.
Utah’s Quickest MFT Programs
- Brigham Young University’s MFT program can be completed in two years, with structured coursework and internship placements.
- Utah State University offers a 2.5-year MFT program, integrating supervised clinical training and coursework.
- Online COAMFTE-accredited programs from other states allow Utah students to accelerate coursework while completing clinical hours locally.
- Students with prior psychology or counseling coursework may qualify for transfer credits, reducing program length.
For students seeking a fast-track to LMFT licensure, enrolling in a structured program with full-time study options and early internship placements is the best strategy.
Utah’s Cheapest MFT Programs
- Brigham Young University offers one of the most affordable COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs, making it an excellent choice for students seeking affordability and accreditation.
- Utah State University provides financial aid, graduate assistantships, and tuition assistance programs, helping students reduce out-of-pocket tuition costs.
- Loan forgiveness programs for LMFTs working in underserved areas allow students to offset tuition expenses while gaining clinical experience.
- Online and hybrid MFT programs may offer lower tuition rates, giving students financial flexibility and convenient learning options.
For students prioritizing affordability, exploring state-funded tuition assistance, employer tuition reimbursement, and loan repayment programs can help minimize financial burdens. Find cheap MFT programs here.
How to Become Licensed as an LMFT in Utah
1. Earn a Master’s or Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy
- Complete a COAMFTE-accredited or regionally accredited MFT program that meets Utah’s licensure requirements.
- Ensure coursework covers family therapy models, ethics, trauma-informed care, and mental health assessments.
2. Complete 4,000 Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience
- Gain post-graduate clinical hours, including 1,000 hours of direct client contact under a licensed MFT supervisor.
- Work in approved therapy settings, such as mental health agencies, hospitals, private practices, or school counseling programs.
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 therapy interventions, ethical decision-making, and relationship counseling techniques.
4. Apply for Licensure Through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)
- Submit official transcripts, proof of supervised clinical hours, and passing exam scores for licensure approval.
- Complete any state-specific licensing requirements, including background checks and ethics training.
5. Maintain Licensure with Continuing Education
- Complete 40 continuing education (CE) hours every renewal cycle, including coursework in ethics, trauma-informed care, and specialized therapy techniques.
- Attend professional workshops, conferences, and online training programs 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 organizations, and school-based therapy programs. Here is a full guide to becoming an LMFT.
LMFT Career & Salary Outlook in Utah
Utah offers strong career opportunities for LMFTs, with demand increasing in private practices, school-based counseling programs, and behavioral health organizations. The average salary for LMFTs in Utah is $63,900 per year, with experienced professionals earning over $95,000 annually.
Where LMFTs Work in Utah
- Private therapy practices offer high earning potential and flexible work schedules.
- Hospitals and behavioral health organizations employ LMFTs for crisis intervention and integrated care.
- School-based therapy programs allow LMFTs to support children, adolescents, and families in academic settings.
- Teletherapy services are expanding, increasing remote work opportunities for LMFTs.
With competitive salaries, high job demand, and diverse career opportunities, Utah is a great state for LMFT professionals.
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