20 Best MFT programs
All 50 states require a master’s or doctoral degree to get an MFT license.
Schools were ranked by ROI using government data.
St. Cloud State University, Seattle Pacific University, and Cambridge College are home to the best MFT programs.
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If you aspire to become a mental health professional and work as a qualified therapist, supporting couples, families, and individuals, a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy (MFT) can put you on the right path. On this page, you’ll discover the top MFT master’s programs in the U.S., ranked by value for money.
While there may be limited opportunities in the MFT field for individuals with bachelor’s or associate’s degrees, if you want to advance your career and give yourself the best possible chance for progression, you should consider committing to a master’s degree in MFT.
Is an MFT degree worth it?
Yes, a master’s in marriage and family therapy is worth it. In all 50 states across the U.S., it’s a legal requirement for marriage and family therapists (MFTs) to complete a master’s or doctoral program, complete clinical experience, and secure a license as a therapist or counselor.
Since all states require a license, each state has a licensing board that regulates practitioners of marriage and family therapy.
» Read: Check out the best online MFT programs
20 Best MFT programs
The following colleges are the leading schools for marriage and family therapy based on a combination of important factors, including post-graduation earnings, debt, and cost as reported by the U.S. government. See more on how we rank colleges below.
Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, Minnesota
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
As a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy student at St. Cloud State University, you will develop the necessary skills to work with individuals, couples, families, groups, and larger social systems in clinical settings. Upon graduation, students will have a unique therapeutic style that pulls from the systems-oriented curriculum taught in the classroom. The M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy is one of the most affordable graduate programs at this university.
Program highlights
- 16 full-time students in the cohort
- 100% student placement for community internships
- 5:1 student/teacher ratio
- On-campus commitment – 2-3 days in the first year and day in the second year.
- State licensing board – This program complies with the pre-requisite educational criteria for licensure. Once the degree is conferred, the Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy has additional requirements such as direct clinical hours, supervision by an approved supervisor, passing the national exam, and passing the state oral exam.
Seattle Pacific University
Seattle, Washington
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
Want to enroll in a master’s program, but don’t want to sacrifice your Christian beliefs? You’ve come to the right place. At Seattle Pacific University, students taking the Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program combine psychology skills, family systems models, and training in a Christian context.
Program highlights
- Cohort-centered program
- Can be completed in either 2 years (full-time) or 3 years (part-time)
- GRE is currently an optional component
- Faculty and staff hold a Christian faith commitment
- Program includes a supervised internship at an approved site
- On-campus commitment – Students are required to be on campus 2 days a week for the duration of the program (unless they’re studying part-time)
- State licensing board – Graduates are eligible to apply for licensure through Washington State’s Department of Health after they complete the required clinical hours, supervision, and exam requirements.
Cambridge College
Boston, Massachusetts
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
Students of the marriage and family program at Cambridge College prepare for a career working with individuals, couples, families and groups by learning about psychotherapeutic techniques, human development, dysfunctional behavior, and mental illness.
Program highlights
- Internship Field Experience is incorporated into the program
- State licensing board – Graduates are prepared to meet the licensing standards of the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.
East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
East Carolina University’s marriage and family therapy program teaches students about systems theory and its application to clinical practice to prepare them for a career helping individuals, couples, and families. It combines didactic coursework and live supervision of clinical work to become a competent and confident therapist.
Program highlights
- GRE scores are required for admission
- Full-time study over 2 years
- ECU’s Family Therapy Clinic has state-of-the-art digital recording software.
- 100% job placement after students graduate and have passed the national exam with high score.
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).
- On-campus commitment – This program is only offered on campus
- State licensing board – Graduates are eligible for the professional licensure and/or certification requirements set by the North Carolina Marriage and Family Therapy Licensing Board.
Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, New York
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
Students attending the marriage and family therapy program at Mercy College will learn family systems theory and how to prevent and treat relational problems. The new Interdisciplinary Health Education Learning Program (IHELP) fellowship expands internship opportunities for graduate students in Mercy’s School Counseling, Mental Health Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, or Occupational Therapy programs. Relational Play Lab for the Mercy University is operating to explore and implement relational play for children, adults, and couples.
Program highlights
- Full- or part-time enrollment options (2 to 5 years to complete)
- Internship experience is integrated into the curriculum
- Students who qualify to participate in IHELP can receive a stipend of up to $10,000 to assist their studies.
- State licensing board – This program qualifies graduates to sit for the National Marriage and Family Therapy licensing exam.
Fairfield University
Fairfield, Connecticut
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The marriage and family therapy program at Fairfield University develops student’s multidisciplinary collaboration, informed decision-making, self-reflection, and social responsibility as they embark on their journey to become marriage and family therapists.
Program highlights
- The GRE is not required for admission
- Can be completed full or part time
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
- On-campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – This program is recognized by the Connecticut State Department of Public Health as an appropriate educational requirement for state licensure.
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, Connecticut
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
Southern’s marriage and family therapy (MFT) program combines on-site clinical supervision with foundational knowledge and rigorous academics. Students will participate in personalized on-site clinical supervision and focus on self-of-the-therapist development. Upon completion, graduates can find employment in community mental health facilities, youth service agencies, hospital outpatient clinics, domestic violence programs, and private practices.
Program highlights
- GRE test scores are not required
- Choose between a 2- or 3-year study track
- 18-month practicum/internship integrated into the program
- A BIPOC support group is available to students
- In 2019-20, both full- and part-time students had a 100% job placement rate
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
- On-campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – This program satisfies the educational requirement to sit for the licensure exam put forth by the Connecticut State Department of Public Health.
University of Mary Hardin – Baylor
Belton, Texas
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The University of Mary Hardin’s marriage, family, and child counseling master’s program is for students who want to work in a variety of public settings that primarily help couples and families, or in private practice. You will learn the necessary therapeutic skills, academic theory, and ethical foundations needed to be a successful therapist.
Program highlights
- 7 semesters to complete if taking the full-time route
- Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- On-campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – Program is approved by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage & Family Therapists.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Winona, Minnesota
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The marriage and family therapy program teaches students systemic/relational theories and models, systemic perspectives for the treatment of mental health issues, intervention strategies, and the ethical framework needed to be successful MFTs.
Program highlights
- Does not require the GRE or Miller Analogy Test (MAT)
- 2-year completion time
- Accredited with the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
- On-campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – This program is approved by the Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy as meeting the academic requirement for licensure.
University of La Verne
La Verne, California
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The marriage and family therapy MS program at the University of La Verne is a clinical-practice focused program that integrates real-world scenarios into the program to prepare marriage and therapy graduates for successful careers as practitioners. This program focuses on inclusivity and equity, teaching students to create non-judgmental spaces for all their clients, regardless of their background, identity or experiences.
Program highlights
- 3 years full-time or 4.5 years part-time
- Regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission
- On-campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – Meets all current Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) academic requirements for Marriage and Family Therapist licensure (LMFT) in California.
University of San Diego
San Diego, California
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The master’s in marital and family therapy program aims to transform students into professionals who can integrate research into their clinical work, uphold ethical practices, work in diverse populations, conduct clinical assessments, and use theory to create treatment plans for individuals, couples, and families.
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) received funding to address the shortage of behavioral healthcare providers in the Southern California area. Project TeamUP was started to provide financial assistance to students looking to work with vulnerable, rural, and underserved populations.
Program highlights
- Does not require the GRE
- Can be taken full or part time
- Full-time students graduate in 2 years
- 12-month clinical practicum in community sites as part of the program
- 1,000 hours completed count toward the 3,000 hours required for MFT licensure in California
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE)
- On-campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – This MFT program prepares students for licensure by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) in California.
Valdosta State University
Valdosta, Georgia
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
This program links relational/systemic theory and practice to cultivate students who have their own therapeutic voice, understand epistemological theories and practices, know various intervention techniques, and can provide professional help to people from diverse populations.
Program highlights
- No longer requires the GRE or MAT
- Program is fully face-to-face and on-campus
- 15 students per faculty member
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Training and Education (COAMFTE)
- On-campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – MFT program prepares students for Georgia state licensure from the Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage & Family Therapists.
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The marriage & family counseling/therapy program at the University of Florida is a dual master’s and specialist program designed for students who are interested in an eco-systemic approach to understanding human problems. Students are prepared to provide competent professional service individuals with an array of issues like marital discord, divorce, child-rearing, family/school conflicts, family violence, and more.
Program highlights
- The GRE is not required
- On-campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – This program fulfills the educational requirement needed to be eligible for state licensure as noted by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling
Touro University Worldwide
Los Alamitos, California
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
This is an online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Marriage and Family Therapy graduate program. Students can choose from clinical, non-clinical, or Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling (LPCC) tracks. Depending on which track students choose, in-person clinical/supervision hours will need to be completed to be eligible for licensure.
Program highlights
- On-campus commitment – No, fully online program
- Accredited by WSCUC and COAMFTE
- State licensing board – The program is approved by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) and is designed so that graduates are eligible for MFT Licensure in the State of California (and most other states).
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
Grand Canyon University is a private Christian university that’s offering a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy. This program focuses on parent-child relationships, the complexities of family dynamics, and marital issues. This MFT emphasis program offers courses online and during evenings for those with busy schedules. Students will get plenty of in-person practice during their supervised field experience.
This program is designed for counselors who are looking to specialize in MFT and not for students looking to become LMFTs.
Program highlights
- Christian worldview and faith-based ethics
- Access to online learning resources and tools
- GCU is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Program fits educational requirements for Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) credentials.
- On-campus commitment – Online and on-campus classes are available
- State licensing board – This program does not lead to marriage and family licensure. Additional educational requirements will need to be taken to qualify for Arizona state licensure as a licensed marriage and family therapist.
California Lutheran University
Thousand Oaks, California
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The MS in Counseling Psychology (MFT) at Cal Lutheran prepares students for successful and rewarding careers as therapists. This program offers students access to 2 on-site training clinics, and different externship settings like hospitals, schools, and specialized facilities. According to their website, California Lutheran University graduates had a higher passing rate on the LMFT Law and Ethics Examination and the LMFT Clinical Exam in 2021 compared to state averages.
Program highlights
- Cohort-based program (25 students per cohort)
- 2-year full-time program or 3-year part-time commitment
- Choose from 6 specializations – psychological trauma, attachment theory, recovery model, Latino/a counseling, family medication
- 12-month practicum placement in an on-site Community Counseling Center
- 750 practicum hours applicable to the California licensing requirement
- Students in practicum are required to complete one community outreach project
- WASC accredited
- State licensing board – This program is designed to meet all of the education requirements set by the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California.
Friends University
Wichita, Kansas
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
At Friends University, obtaining a master’s degree in family therapy equips you with the essential theoretical, clinical, multicultural, and interpersonal skills necessary for eventual licensure and successful practice as a mental health professional specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy. The program emphasizes four crucial domains of competency for MFTs, which are interpersonal, theoretical, clinical, and sociocultural competency.
Program highlights
- MSFT program embodies core Quaker values
- 16-month supervised clinical internship integrated into the program
- Job placement rates for Wichita MFT graduates at 100% since 2013-2014
- COAMFTE accredited
- On campus commitment – Online and on-campus classes are available
- State licensing board – Meets the educational requirements necessary for licensure in Kansas and Missouri.
Texas Woman’s University
Denton, Texas
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
Texas Woman’s University was the first public university in Texas to offer MS and PhD degrees for marriage and family therapists. The M.S. is Marriage and Family Therapy at the Texas Woman’s University focuses on a systems approach that focuses on the interaction between individuals, families, and larger systems and how they affect individuals, couples, and the family unit. According to their website, in most graduating years all students pass the national licensure exam.
Program highlights
- GRE scores and/or letters of recommendation are not required
- Thesis or Non-thesis Option
- Takes an average of 2.6 years to complete for full time students and 3.5 years for part time students
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education
- State licensing board – Fulfills all course requirements of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage & Family Therapists
Texas A&M University, Central Texas
Killeen, Texas
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The master’s in marriage and family therapy equips students to adeptly contribute to family systems within a collaborative setting that supports engagement with the larger healthcare system. This is achieved through a combination of learning, therapeutic practice, and community engagement. Students acquire a strong sense of ethical responsibility, ensuring the application of professional practices, and foster personal and professional development by cultivating intentional self-awareness and self-reflection.
Program highlights
- GRE is not required for admission
- On campus commitment – This is an on-campus program
- State licensing board – This program meets the requirements set by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists
George Fox University
Newberg, Oregon
The Economic Score is the combination of debt-to-earnings ratio and earningsplus. We use the economic score to determine a graduate program’s rank. The lower the economic score the better. For an analysis of how we arrive at the economic score, and a description of our data sources, please visit our methodology page.
Median earnings of all students 4 years after graduating.
The debt-to-earnings ratio is calculated by dividing student debt upon graduation by the annual salary. A debt to earnings ratio of 1 means that annual educational debt is the same as annual earnings.
The total debt accrued by the median student at the time of graduation.
The M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling at George Fox University fosters an environment that encourages the integration of faith and learning. This is a dual licensure program that prepares students for careers as licensed marriage and family therapists and licensed professional counselors. Upon graduation, students are prepared to serve couples and families in private practice, at for-profit and nonprofit organizations, and in hospitals and schools.
Program highlights
- Chrisitan university
- Dual licensure program (LMFT and LPC)
- 700-hour supervised clinical internship
- On-campus commitment – Online or in-person
- Approved by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists
- Accredited by the CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs)
How we ranked MFT programs
To be featured on this list of best master’s in family therapy programs, programs needed to provide students with a degree whose debt is offset by its average earnings after graduation. This simply means that if a degree or school leaves students with lots of debt and poor earnings after graduation – you will never see it on any of our ranking pages.
To ensure our rankings remain objective, we rely exclusively on government data provided by College Scorecard and IPEDS.
We were tired of biased college ranking systems that factor in waffly variables like “prestige,” so we created a ranking methodology that only uses data provided by the U.S. Department of Education and National Center of Education Statistics.
www.degreechoices.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Ready to start your MFT career?
Check out these accredited online MFT programs to jumpstart your journey as a marriage and family therapist.
What can you do with an MFT degree?
Most students go on to become Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) after graduation. As of 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 66,200 active MFTs across the U.S. It anticipates a growth rate of 15%, or an additional 9,930 MFTs securing employment between 2022 and 2032.
The average annual salary for an MFT was $56,570, with the top 10% of MFTs capable of earning $98,700 and upwards. The most lucrative MFT positions are located within state government, with average salaries for MFTs here starting at $79,110.
According to O*Net, other career options for those looking to pursue a degree in marriage and family therapy include:
Where can I work?
There are multiple employment settings open to people with a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, including:
- Outpatient healthcare and mental health treatment centers
- Hospitals
- Doctor’s offices
- Schools
- Social service agencies
- Addiction treatment centers
- Military
- Legal and correctional centers
- Churches and religious organizations
- Government departments
How to choose an MFT program
There are a lot of different MFT programs, and finding the right one for you can be overwhelming. Several things need to be considered, including cost, location, accreditation, and more.
While browsing for an MFT program, ask yourself:
- Do you want to study in person or online?
- What are the in-state vs. out-of-state tuition rates?
- What are the requirements for licensure in the state you want to study in?
- Do you prefer cohort or independent learning?
- Are there any internship requirements?
- Is this program accredited?
Explore similar programs
FAQs
How much do marriage and family therapists make?
According to BLS, the average salary for a marriage and family therapist was $56,570 in 2022, but the top 10% of MFTs made $90,700. The highest paying states for MFTs were Utah, New Jersey, and Maryland.
What is LMFT?
LMFT stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. These are people who have finished their educational and clinical requirements and obtained licensure in their state.
How long does it take to become a family therapist?
To become a full-fledged LMFT it will take 6 to 8 years. It takes 4 years to complete a bachelor’s program, another 2-3 years for a master’s degree, and an additional 2 years of supervised clinical experience after that.
How much will an MFT degree cost?
On average, an MFT degree leaves students with $55,669 in debt.
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