Online Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Programs

Marriage and family therapy is a dynamic and essential field, addressing the complex challenges individuals, couples, and families face in today’s world. For those looking to enter or advance in this rewarding profession, earning a Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) degree is a critical step.

This guide will explore the key aspects of online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy programs, from curriculum and accreditation to licensing requirements and career opportunities. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking to advance in your career, this article will provide the insights you need to make an informed decision.

Online Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy Program Overview

An online Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) is a graduate degree program designed to prepare students for careers as professional marriage and family therapists. These programs emphasize the skills needed to support individuals, couples, and families in navigating life’s challenges, improving relationships, and addressing mental health concerns.

Curriculum

The curriculum in an online MFT program typically includes coursework in areas such as:

  • Counseling theories and techniques
  • Family systems therapy
  • Human development and behavior
  • Ethics and legal issues in therapy
  • Multicultural counseling
  • Research methods in mental health

Many programs also require students to complete clinical training, such as internships or practicums, where they gain supervised experience working with clients. This hands-on component is essential for licensure and ensures students are prepared for real-world practice.

Benefits of the Online Format

Online MFT programs offer flexibility for students who may be balancing education with work or personal commitments. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Accessibility: Students can attend accredited programs without relocating.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Many programs offer asynchronous courses, allowing students to complete coursework on their own time.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Online programs often reduce costs associated with commuting, housing, and campus fees.

Importance of Accreditation

Accreditation is a critical factor when choosing an MFT program. A program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) ensures that it meets high standards of academic and clinical preparation. Accreditation is often required for licensure and ensures that your degree will be recognized by employers and licensing boards.

COAMFTE-Accredited Online MFT Programs

The following list includes online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) as of November 2024. COAMFTE also accredits traditional and hybrid programs, providing even more options for prospective students. Because COAMFTE regularly updates its database, visiting their website is recommended for the latest program information. Program details highlighted here are also subject to change over time.

Abilene Christian University Online

Location: Abilene, TX
Type: Private, not-for-profit

Online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

Program Highlights

Structure:

  • 60 credit hours
  • Minimum duration: 33 months
  • Includes at least 12 months of internship with 100+ hours of supervision

Specializations Offered:

  • Child and Adolescent Therapy: Focused on age-appropriate interventions for children and teens, including play therapy and related assessment strategies.
  • General Track: Covers individual and family development, crisis theory, and trauma while allowing elective selection from other concentrations.
  • Therapy with Military Families: Addresses challenges specific to military family dynamics, including trauma and lifecycle events.
  • Treatment of Trauma: Focused on interventional models and treatment strategies for trauma and violence within relationships.

Licensure Preparation: Designed to prepare students for the Marriage and Family Therapy National Examination administered by AMFTRB.

Learning Approach:

  • Combines practical training in therapy techniques, mental illness, addiction, and assessment.
  • Emphasizes Christian vocational principles and evidence-based practices.

Tuition:

  • $799 per credit hour
  • $400 resource fee per semester

Example Coursework:

  • Family Theory
  • Systemic Diagnosis & Assessment
  • Addictive Disorders
  • Cultural Diversity in Family Therapy
  • Couples Therapy

Faculty Excellence: Program led by Dr. Sara Salkil, a COAMFTE Commissioner and experienced marriage and family therapist.

Alliant International University

Location: Irvine, CA
Type: Private, for-profit

MA in Marital and Family Therapy

Program Highlights

Structure:

  • Coursework offered fully online and on-campus across multiple California locations.
  • Clinical training includes 300 hours of direct client contact, 100 hours of supervision, and 100 professional development hours, contributing up to 1,300 hours toward licensure.
  • Chemical Dependency Specialization: Earn a CAADE-accredited specialization integrated into the program without additional coursework, focusing on treating families dealing with addiction and substance abuse.

Career Preparation:

  • Prepares students to work in diverse settings, including community mental health centers, private practice, residential treatment facilities, and schools.
  • Graduates may pursue careers as mental health counselors, therapists, or educators, or continue doctoral-level training.

Cultural Competency Focus: Emphasizes diversity and prepares students to work with culturally and linguistically diverse populations.

Tuition Support: Eligible students may receive up to $50,000 in loan reimbursement from the National Health Services Corps for work in underserved areas.

Compelling Coursework:

  • Topics include couples therapy, trauma and crisis intervention, family therapy techniques, parent-child therapy, and sex therapy.

Legacy of Excellence:

  • CSPP, the program’s host school, has a 50-year history of producing leading mental health professionals and thought leaders.

Capella University

Location: Minneapolis, MN
Type: Private, for-profit

Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

Program Highlights

Structure:

  • Fully online program with 16 courses, including two residencies and four quarters of internships.
  • Requires 72 quarter credits, with a maximum of 16 transfer credits accepted.
  • Includes foundational coursework in systemic family therapy, psychopathology, addiction, trauma interventions, and diversity.

Cost Transparency:

  • Estimated tuition: $35,784 (no transfer credits, $497/credit, plus fees).
  • Tuition may vary based on transfer credits, specialization, and applicable scholarships.
  • Additional costs include travel and practicum-related expenses.

Scholarships and Discounts:

  • $2,500 Capella Progress Reward available for eligible students.
  • 10% military tuition discount for active service members, veterans, and their families.

Hands-On Training:

  • Emphasis on practical experience with 300 hours of client contact and 100 hours of supervision.
  • Residencies provide interactive learning and clinical practice opportunities.

Focus on Social Justice and Cultural Competency:

  • Curriculum integrates advocacy and diversity principles to address a variety of cultural and systemic family dynamics.

Career Preparation:

  • Graduates are equipped for roles such as child and family therapists, military family counselors, and marriage and family therapists.
  • Employment opportunities include mental health offices, family services, and youth organizations.

Supportive Learning Environment:

  • GuidedPath format with structured schedules and faculty guidance.
  • Access to dedicated enrollment counselors, academic advisors, and an active peer community.

Indiana Wesleyan University

Location: Indianapolis, IN
Type: Private, not-for-profit

Master of Arts with a Major in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy

Program Highlights

Structure:

  • 60-credit hour program completed over 30–42 months.
  • Courses include foundational counseling topics like human growth and development, multicultural counseling, and major MFT models.
  • Supervised clinical training: 300 hours of direct client contact, with 100 hours focused on relational counseling.

Christian Worldview:

  • Integrates evidence-based approaches with Christian principles, emphasizing the student’s faith in therapeutic practice.

Tuition:

  • $602 per credit hour 
  • Financial aid options include grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits, and employer reimbursement.
  • Tuition remains constant for continuously enrolled students.

Practical Experience:

  • Live supervision and video-recorded therapy sessions.
  • Internship placements in diverse environments.

Career Preparation:

  • Prepares graduates for roles such as marriage and family therapists, pastoral counselors, and group counselors.
  • Focus on cultural competence, ethical integrity, and systemic approaches to therapy.

Supportive Learning Environment:

  • Intimate community fostering shared faith, knowledge, and professional growth.
  • Access to resources like the Center for Student Success and dedicated faculty members.

Kairos University

Location: Sioux Falls, SD
Type: Private, not-for-profit

Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Program Highlights

Overview:

  • 65-credit-hour online program.
  • COAMFTE-accredited.
  • Prepares students for licensure in 40+ states, including South Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Texas.

Program Highlights:

  • Cohort Model: Encourages community learning, dialogue, and peer feedback.
  • Self-of-the-Therapist Focus: Emphasizes personal growth and self-awareness in therapy.
  • Faith Integration: Combines Christian theological sensitivity with family systems therapy.
  • Clinical Training: Culminates in 300-500+ face-to-face client hours through internships.
  • Core Topics: Trauma, family systems, diversity and cultural attunement, systemic sex therapy, and teletherapy ethics.

Program Length: Part-time completion in approximately 3–4 years, with accelerated options available.

Admissions Requirements:

  • Minimum GPA: 2.5 (3.0 for MAMFT).
  • Official transcripts.
  • Application and admissions materials.

Loma Linda University

Location: Loma Linda, CA
Type: Private, not-for-profit

Marital and Family Therapy (MS Online)

Program Highlights

Overview:

  • COAMFTE-accredited online Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy.
  • Designed for working professionals with a 2.5-year full-time completion timeline.
  • 90 quarter-unit program featuring both synchronous and asynchronous courses.

Program Highlights:

  • Clinical Training: Local practicums approved by the program; dedicated Director of Clinical Training for support.
  • Specialization Options: Includes a Medical Family Therapy specialization for working with families facing illness or disability.
  • Additional Certificates: Tuition waivers available for Play Therapy or Drug & Alcohol Counseling certificates.
  • Christian Environment: Emphasizes whole-person care and integrates faith-based principles.
  • Interdisciplinary Learning: Access to Loma Linda University’s medical and behavioral health facilities for hands-on experience.

Admissions Information:

  • Open to U.S. residents in approved SARA states; international students not accepted for the online program.
  • No GRE required; admissions based on academic history, recommendations, and faculty interviews.

National University

Location: San Diego, CA
Type: Private, not-for-profit

Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy

Program Highlights

Overview:

  • Fully online MFT program accredited by COAMFTE and IACSTE.
  • Designed to prepare students for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists.
  • Flexible course structure with weekly starts and no residency requirements.

Program Highlights:

  • Clinical Training: Students complete practicums and internships locally in their communities.
  • Specializations Available:
    • Child and Adolescent Family Therapy
    • Couple Therapy
    • LGBTQ Couple and Family Therapy
    • Medical Family Therapy
    • Military Family Therapy
    • Systemic Treatment of Addictions
    • Trauma-Informed Systemic Therapy
  • Accredited: Meets rigorous standards of both COAMFTE and IACSTE.
  • Flexible Learning: Offers a unique one-to-one teaching model and 100% online delivery.

Admissions Information:

  • Open to U.S.-based students with rolling admissions and year-round course starts.
  • Streamlined application process with no GRE requirement.

Northwestern University, The Family Institute

Location: Evanston, IL
Type: Private, not-for-profit

Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

Program Highlights

Overview:

  • COAMFTE-accredited program offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University.
  • Combines online coursework with in-person clinical training and a single immersion experience.
  • Designed to prepare students for licensure in most U.S. states.

Program Highlights:

  • Flexible Learning Options: Complete the program in as few as 21 months full-time or 36 months part-time.
  • Clinical Training: Includes 250 hours of supervision and 400+ hours of clinical practicum.
  • Outcome-Based Education Framework: Focuses on program quality through ongoing assessment of student achievements.
  • Specialized Curriculum:
    • Courses include Basic Concepts of Systems Therapy, Family Therapy with Children and Adolescents, and Power, Privilege, and Difference.
    • Emphasizes Integrative Systemic Therapy (IST), a model developed by Northwestern faculty.

Admissions Information:

  • No GRE required.
  • Academic advisers and placement specialists assist with course scheduling and practicum site selection.

Additional Features:

  • Access to Northwestern’s research labs and extensive alumni network.
  • Live, face-to-face classes with about 15 students per session, taught by leading faculty in marriage and family therapy.

Syracuse University

Location: Syracuse, NY
Type: Private, not-for-profit

Marriage & Family Therapy M.A.

Program Highlights

Overview:

  • Fully online, COAMFTE-accredited Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy.
  • 60-credit program combining academic coursework with supervised clinical training.
  • Focus on addressing contemporary mental health needs with a commitment to cultural humility and social justice.

Program Highlights:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum:
    • Includes 51 required credits and 9 elective credits.
    • Topics include LGBTQ concerns, trauma, parenting challenges, marital difficulties, and family violence.
  • Clinical Practicum:
    • Requires a 500-hour supervised practicum.
    • Placement coordinators assist in finding community-based sites that meet COAMFTE standards.
  • Social Justice Framework:
    • Emphasizes awareness of self, cultural humility, and systemic approaches to therapy.
  • Distinguished Department:
    • Longest-standing department of its kind in the U.S., with over 50 years of history.

Career Opportunities:

  • Graduates are eligible for licensure or certification in all 50 states.
  • Employment settings include:
    • Inpatient/outpatient centers and hospitals
    • Government and military facilities
    • Substance abuse treatment centers
    • Schools, non-profits, private practices, and more
  • Doctoral degree required for university-level teaching and research.

Admissions Information:

  • No GRE required.
  • Dedicated admissions counselors available to guide prospective students through the process.

Touro University Worldwide

Location: Los Alamitos, CA
Type: Private, not-for-profit

Online Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy

Program Highlights

Overview:

  • Flexible, 100% online Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT).
  • Offers three distinct tracks: Clinical, Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling (LPCC), and Non-Clinical.
  • COAMFTE-accredited Clinical Track available, focusing on competency-based training for licensure eligibility.

Program Tracks and Highlights:

  • Clinical Track (COAMFTE-Accredited):
    • 72-credit program including 300+ practicum client contact hours.
    • Combines coursework and field internship.
  • LPCC Track (California Board of Behavioral Sciences Approved):
    • Includes Clinical Track requirements plus four additional courses.
    • Total of 82 credits required for degree completion.
  • Non-Clinical Track:
    • 54-credit program without practicum or clinical requirements.
    • Ideal for students not pursuing licensure.

Program Mission:

  • Prepares students to become culturally sensitive, ethical, and systems-oriented therapists.
  • Emphasizes holistic treatment addressing family dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and systemic perspectives.

Career Opportunities:

  • Graduates can pursue roles such as:
    • Marriage and Family Therapist
    • Clinical Therapist
    • Addiction Counselor
    • Community Mental Health Counselor

Key Features:

  • Accreditations: COAMFTE, WSCUC, and California BBS.
  • Course Delivery: 100% online, 8-week courses.
  • Transfer Credits: Accepts up to 12 transfer credits.
  • Tuition:
    • Clinical Track: $37,800
    • LPCC Track: $43,050
    • Non-Clinical Track: $28,350

Tips for Finding the Best Program for You

Choosing the right MFT program is a crucial step in your career journey. While accreditation ensures a baseline of quality, finding a program that aligns with your personal and professional goals involves several considerations. Below are key areas to evaluate:

Program Area

Consider whether the program specializes in areas of MFT that interest you, such as family systems, addiction, trauma, or cultural competency. Tailoring your education to your career goals can make you more competitive in your desired field.

Program Format

Online programs often provide flexibility, but formats vary widely. Some are fully online, while others require occasional on-campus residencies or synchronous sessions. Decide what level of in-person interaction and scheduling flexibility best suits your needs.

Admission Requirements

Understand the program’s prerequisites, such as undergraduate degree requirements, minimum GPA, or prior counseling experience. Some programs may require GRE scores, while others waive this requirement.

Costs and Financial Aid

Tuition and fees can vary significantly between programs. Be sure to research the program’s total cost and available financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, or loans. Some schools offer tuition discounts for in-state students or specific cohorts.

Curriculum and Faculty

Examine the program’s curriculum to ensure it covers essential topics, such as ethics, systems theory, and supervised clinical practice. Faculty expertise and professional experience are also important factors in receiving a well-rounded education.

Geographic Location

Although online programs are typically location-flexible, some may require clinical placements or internships near the school’s home state. Make sure these requirements align with your geographic preferences and licensing goals.

School Size and Culture

Consider whether you thrive in smaller, close-knit programs or larger institutions with more diverse offerings. Look into student support services, alumni networks, and the school’s overall approach to fostering community.

Licensure Considerations

If your goal is to pursue professional licensure, confirm that the program meets the educational requirements for MFT licensing in your state. Licensing criteria can vary, and ensuring compliance upfront can save you time and effort post-graduation. Check with your state licensing board and the program itself for clarity.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a program that positions you for success in the field of marriage and family therapy.

MFT Licensing

Obtaining licensure is a critical step for those pursuing a career in marriage and family therapy. Licensure requirements ensure that therapists meet professional standards and are prepared to provide competent care. The process involves specific educational milestones, supervised clinical experience, and passing licensure exams. Below is a breakdown of the key steps and designations involved in the MFT licensing journey.

Licensure Designations: AMFT and LMFT

  • Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT):
    This is typically the first licensure designation for MFT graduates. An AMFT license allows individuals to practice under supervision while they gain the necessary clinical hours required for full licensure. The number of required supervised hours varies by state but generally ranges between 2,000 and 4,000 hours.
  • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT):
    After completing supervised hours and passing the state-required exams, candidates can apply for an LMFT license. This designation enables therapists to practice independently and take on advanced roles, such as opening a private practice or supervising other therapists.

Educational and Examination Requirements

  • Educational Requirements:
    Most states require a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field from an accredited program. Completing a COAMFTE-accredited MFT program often simplifies the licensure process, as these programs are designed to meet state requirements.
  • Examination Requirements:
    The most common exam required for licensure is the Marriage and Family Therapy National Examination, administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB). This exam evaluates a candidate’s knowledge of clinical practices, ethical standards, and therapeutic techniques.

State-Specific Requirements

Licensure requirements can vary significantly by state. It’s essential for aspiring MFTs to research their state’s specific criteria, which may include:

  • Additional coursework in specific areas, such as ethics or diversity.
  • State-specific jurisprudence exams that test knowledge of local laws.
  • Continued education requirements for license renewal.

Job Outlook and Salary for Marriage and Family Therapists

The demand for marriage and family therapists (MFTs) is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, offering promising career opportunities for those entering the field. Below, we explore the latest data on job outlook and salary, helping prospective students and professionals understand the potential career landscape.

Job Outlook for MFTs

Employment of marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 16 percent from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This growth rate is much faster than the average for all occupations, reflecting the increasing need for mental health services and the adoption of integrated care models.

Integrated care involves collaboration among various healthcare providers—such as MFTs, substance abuse counselors, and behavioral disorder specialists—to address clients’ needs comprehensively. This team-based approach has been shown to improve outcomes, driving demand for professionals like MFTs in a range of settings.

On average, 7,500 job openings for MFTs are expected annually over the decade. These openings will likely stem from both job growth and the need to replace workers who retire or transition to other careers.

MFT Salaries

The median annual wage for marriage and family therapists was $58,510 as of May 2023, per the BLS. Median wages represent the midpoint, where half of professionals earn more and half earn less.

Salaries can vary significantly depending on factors like industry, location, and level of experience. Here’s a breakdown of median annual wages for MFTs by industry:

  • State government (excluding education and hospitals): $86,030
  • Outpatient care centers: $61,390
  • Individual and family services: $50,700
  • Offices of other health practitioners: $49,190

MFTs working in state government roles tend to earn the highest salaries, while those employed in outpatient care and individual services also report competitive wages. Entry-level positions may offer lower compensation, but MFTs with advanced credentials, specializations, or private practices can earn significantly more.

Tips for Comparing MFT Program Costs and Paying for Education

Choosing a Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program involves not only selecting the right academic fit but also navigating the costs associated with your education. Below, we offer guidance on evaluating program expenses and strategies for funding your degree.

Comparing MFT Program Costs

1. Understand Tuition and Fees Tuition costs vary widely between institutions, with public universities often offering lower rates for in-state students compared to private institutions. Keep in mind:

  • In-state vs. out-of-state tuition: Public universities may charge significantly higher tuition for non-residents.
  • Additional fees: Look for technology, lab, and practicum fees that might not be included in the advertised tuition.

2. Consider the Total Cost of Attendance Beyond tuition, other factors contribute to the overall cost of earning an MFT degree:

  • Books and materials: Budget for textbooks, online course materials, and software.
  • Clinical practicum costs: Some programs may require travel to practicum sites or specific equipment.
  • Living expenses: Even with online programs, students may need to account for reduced work hours or increased childcare costs.

3. Evaluate Program Formats Online MFT programs can offer cost savings by eliminating relocation or commuting expenses. Some online programs also provide flat-rate tuition regardless of residency, making them a more affordable option for out-of-state students.

4. Accreditation Matters Programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) often align with licensing requirements, which can save time and money by streamlining your path to becoming an LMFT. Accredited programs may also offer better financial aid opportunities.

Paying for Your MFT Education

1. Explore Financial Aid Options

  • Federal student aid: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
  • Institutional scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships specifically for MFT students.
  • Private scholarships: Organizations such as the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) may provide funding opportunities.

2. Look for Employer Tuition Assistance If you’re currently working in a related field, your employer may offer tuition reimbursement or assistance as part of their benefits package.

3. Consider Loan Forgiveness Programs Graduates who work in high-need areas or public service roles may qualify for loan forgiveness programs, such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

4. Minimize Debt Through Budgeting Reduce reliance on loans by exploring part-time work, applying for assistantships, or choosing cost-effective living arrangements during your studies.

FAQ

What is the difference between an MFT and an LMFT?

An MFT refers to the field of marriage and family therapy or an individual trained in this discipline, typically at the graduate level. An LMFT is a licensed professional who has completed specific post-graduate requirements, including supervised clinical experience and licensing exams, to practice independently.

Are online MFT programs credible?

Yes, online MFT programs are credible if they are accredited by recognized organizations such as the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards and prepares students for licensure.

Can I complete my practicum or internship online in an online MFT program?

While coursework can often be completed online, most programs require students to complete their practicum or internship in person. These experiences involve direct client interaction and are typically arranged at approved sites near the student’s location.

How long does it take to earn a Master of Marriage and Family Therapy?

Most MFT programs take 2 to 3 years of full-time study to complete, though some online programs may offer accelerated options or part-time formats for added flexibility.

What is the average salary for an MFT graduate?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for marriage and family therapists was $58,510 as of May 2023. Salaries can vary widely based on factors such as location, employer, and level of experience.

What financial aid options are available for MFT students?

Financial aid options for MFT students include:

  • Federal and state grants
  • Scholarships from universities or professional organizations like the AAMFT
  • Work-study programs
  • Tuition reimbursement from employers
  • Federal and private student loans

Do all states require licensure for MFTs?

Yes, all states require marriage and family therapists to obtain licensure to practice independently. Requirements vary by state but generally include completing a COAMFTE-accredited program, gaining supervised clinical experience, and passing a licensing exam.

Finding the Right Path in Marriage and Family Therapy

Pursuing an online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy is a meaningful step toward a career dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate complex challenges. With accredited programs offering flexibility and comprehensive preparation for licensure, students can tailor their education to fit their personal and professional goals. By understanding the role of an MFT, licensing requirements, and the benefits of online learning, you’ll be equipped to take the next step toward this rewarding career path.

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