Online COAMFTE Accredited Programs To Consider

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Programs Currently Accepting Applicants

Walden University : MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

National University : Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (Accredited. No GRE. Scholarships Available)

National University : Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy (Accredited. No GRE. Scholarships Available)

Campbellsville University : Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)

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What Is COAMFTE?

COAMFTE is the leading agency for accredited marriage and family therapy programs. The goal of this organization is to provide a review and accreditation process for current MFT degree programs to ensure the quality and applicability of MFT programs offered across the U.S.

COAMFTE provides accreditation options for traditional and online degree marriage and family therapy programs. Students can earn accreditation through three types of programs at this organization: master's degrees, doctoral degrees, and postgraduate degree clinical training programs.

Since 1974, COAMFTE has worked to create a reliable set of standards for accredited marriage and family therapy programs in this field and has moved on to accredit only the most reliable degree options and programs for incoming learners. This guide will outline different options for in-person or online degree programs at multiple levels.

Students searching for accredited marriage and family therapy programs should familiarize themselves with COAMFTE and its review process. Each degree program that has received accreditation holds only the highest level of quality within its curriculum and instructional approach.

Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program

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School and Program Information	Online Program? Entry Requirements	Course Information
Walden University MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online	Learn how to support the well-being of your students as they cope with complex personal and family challenges. Explore human sexual development as well as the relationships and family dynamics impacting young people’s lives today. Build the cross-cultural competencies and skills required to understand family structures, life-cycle dynamics, intergenerational influences, and healthy family functioning. The optional accelerated track is designed for students who are interested in taking three courses per quarter and potentially finishing their program in a shorter time frame. The accelerated track has the same curriculum, residencies, and field experience requirements as the general track, but requires a strong time commitment and is best suited for students who can dedicate themselves full time to their studies. Learn More
National University Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy COAMFTE Accredited	✔ Online GRE Scores Not Required	Earn your masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited. Learn More
National University Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy COAMFTE Accredited	✔ Online GRE Scores Not Required	Earn your Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited. Learn More
Campbellsville University Master of Marriage and Family Therapy	✔ Online GRE Scores Not Required	Campbellsville University's online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy offers a flexible and affordable pathway to a rewarding career in family counseling. Built and taught by expert therapists, this COAMFTE-accredited program features online courses and a hands-on practicum experience. Graduate as soon as two years, ready to pursue state licensure. No application fee. Learn more today. Learn More

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*Sponsored Counseling Programs

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☰ For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs

The COAMFTE Accreditation Process

The accreditation process for MFT programs is extensive, with seven essential steps. It's important to know that it takes a minimum of two years to complete the accreditation process, with some programs taking longer.

Programs must prepare for accreditation.

• The first step in the process includes research and data collection.
• Programs need to collect data two years before applying for accreditation.
• Programs must implement program policies, processes, resources, outcome-based educational structures, and curricula aligned with COAMFTE's standards.
• Interested programs must show achievement data consistent with COAMFTE's standards before moving to the next step.

Programs must submit a letter of intent.

• Whether programs seek accreditation renewal or initial accreditation, a letter of intent is required.
• The letter of intent should include the projected date for submission of the Eligibility Criteria or Self-Study materials.
• Programs must study eligibility criteria and familiarize themselves with the accreditation standards, processes, policies, and procedures.
• Interested programs must discuss the requirements and application deadlines with the Director of Accreditation.
• Programs seeking initial accreditation must attend a COAMFTE accreditation training before submitting the Eligibility Criteria Report.

Programs seeking initial eligibility must submit eligibility criteria.

• Programs must submit institutional accreditation for master's and doctoral degree programs.
• They must also include state or charter licenses for degree authority.
• Other required documents include a financial viability letter, documentation of a governance board, graduate achievement data, and a list of graduates and students.
• Programs must also link to their program handbook and any published materials.
• Programs can only begin the next step with the Commission inviting them to continue.

Programs must submit a self-study.

• If the Commission invites the program to continue, programs will be asked to complete a self-study.
• The self-study helps programs determine goals, assess achievements, identify problems, and implement needed changes.

Programs must prepare for a site visit.

• Programs providing enough information to demonstrate compliance will be recommended for a site visit.
• The program must pay for all costs related to the site visit.
• The Site Visit Team will prepare a preliminary written report, and programs must respond to it after it's submitted to the institution's CEO and the program director.

The Commission reviews all information and makes a decision.

• The Commission will review all information, including the self-study, the site visit report, and the program's response to the report.
• If the program is approved, initial accreditation is granted for a maximum period of six years.
• The Commission may give some programs a chance to be accredited with stipulations that they correct any issues within two years.
• If the program is denied accreditation, it must wait a year before reapplying.

Programs must maintain accreditation.

• Programs must demonstrate continuous compliance by submitting an annual report, noting any changes since the previous year.
• A self-study may also be required to maintain accreditation.

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Walden University - MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

National University - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)

National University - Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)

Campbellsville University - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)

Why Consider an Online COAMFTE Accredited MFT Program?

According to Megan Kelly, MA, LMHC in Indiana, “there are many branches of therapy and counseling careers to choose from, and marriage and family therapy is a much-needed and often fulfilling role for many prospective therapists. Choosing the right online MFT program can make all the difference in your future career, and a COAMFTE accredited program is a great place to start.”

COAMFTE Ensures the Quality of the MFT Program

When deciding to pursue an online degree program, students should also consider the quality of the degree program they are reviewing. One way to ensure that a degree program can provide students with opportunities for licensure is to check the program’s accreditation status. For example, COAMFTE-accredited MFT degree programs ensure that the curriculum meets the quality and content standards necessary to prepare students for future marriage and family therapy careers.

COAMFTE Ensures Course Material and Practicum Align with LMFT Licensure

COAMFTE reviews and approves degree programs in marriage and family therapy. If the program being reviewed holds this type of accreditation, learners can rest assured that their program contains the correct course materials and practicum experiences required for future licensing.

Choosing a COAMFTE-accredited MFT online program often means a high-quality education with the flexibility busy adult professionals looking to advance their careers need. COAMFTE accreditation standards are based on a program’s ability to prepare students to fulfill their roles in the community and professional climate. Current standards are based on a more inclusive definition of marriage and family to reflect changing societal values. COAMFTE also ensures that students are prepared to follow the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Code of Ethics that MFT professionals must adhere to. In addition, COAMFTE is a Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognized accreditor.

Graduates of COAMFTE-Accredited Programs May Have a Faster Licensure Process

To be eligible for MFT licensure, many state licensing boards require accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE). While some states will allow licensure with a non-accredited program, the program must prove that they have similar standards. With a recognized qualifying degree, graduates may be able to seek licensure faster.

In addition, if you move to another state, a COAMFTE-accredited program will be recognized and helpful when obtaining an MFT license.

Graduates of COAMFTE-Accredited Programs May Have Expanded Career Options

Employers in the MFT field are familiar with COAMFTE-accredited programs and are more likely to hire graduates from those programs. This gives you an advantage over other graduates who may not have chosen an accredited program. In addition, a COAMFTE-accredited program will provide you with ample preparation for state or national exams in marriage and family therapy.

COAMFTE vs. CACREP?

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is a CHEA-recognized accreditor for U.S. counseling programs.

CACREP was established in 1981 and set the standard for the content and quality that an online or a traditional counseling degree program would have to meet to be accredited. CACREP accreditation currently covers more than 900 specialty areas and programs at over 450 colleges and universities.

When considering COAMFTE vs. CACREP, there are several factors to think about. While CACREP is an accreditor for all counseling degrees, it is not as specific as COAMFTE, which focuses solely on MFT degree programs. Those looking specifically to be MFTs should be able to decide between COAMFTE and CACREP without difficulty.

COAMFTE-accredited online programs can offer an education more specific to marriage and family therapy. However, students who need help deciding what specialization to pursue may also find CACREP-accredited programs helpful, as they can provide more generalized education in counseling.

Online COAMFTE MFT Master’s Degrees

Here are several online master’s degree programs in marriage and family therapy that have received COAMFTE accreditation.

Abilene Christian University

Program: Online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

• Format: Online, with a residential option in Abilene, Texas
• Credit Hours: 60
• Duration: Minimum of 33 months, including at least 12 months of internship
• Clinical Training: Internship with 100+ hours of supervision
• Specializations: Child and Adolescent Therapy, Therapy with Military Families, Treatment of Trauma, Medical Family Therapy

Abilene Christian University’s Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) program is designed for working professionals seeking a flexible, online education with a strong Christian foundation. The program emphasizes evidence-based therapy techniques, cultural competence, and ethical practice. Students gain real-world experience through supervised clinical training and can specialize in key areas of family therapy, including trauma and military families. Graduates are prepared to sit for the Marriage and Family Therapy National Examination.

Alliant International University

Program: Online Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy

• Clinical Training: 300 hours of direct client contact, 100 hours of supervision, and at least 100 professional development hours
• Specialization: Optional Chemical Dependency Specialization (CAADE-accredited)
• Financial Aid: Up to $50,000 loan reimbursement through the National Health Services Corps for qualified graduates
• Licensure Preparation: Designed to meet requirements for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Alliant International University’s MA in Marital and Family Therapy prepares students to become culturally competent therapists equipped to work with diverse populations. The program offers both online and in-person options, emphasizing hands-on training in clinical settings. With a strong focus on cultural competency and behavioral science, students gain expertise in family counseling, trauma intervention, and mental health treatment. The COAMFTE accreditation makes it easier for graduates to obtain licensure across different states.

Capella University

Program: Online Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

• Credit Requirements: 16 courses, including two residency courses and four quarters of internship
• Transfer Credits: Up to 16 credits may be transferred
• Financial Aid: $2,500 Capella Progress Reward scholarship available for eligible students
• Licensure Preparation: Designed to meet educational requirements for LMFT licensure, but students must verify state-specific requirements

Capella University’s online MS in Marriage and Family Therapy combines academic theory with practical experience through required residencies and internships. Faculty members are scholar-practitioners with clinical experience, ensuring that students receive training aligned with real-world practice. The program follows COAMFTE standards, making it a strong choice for students seeking a structured, flexible path to licensure as a marriage and family therapist.

Kairos University

Program: Online Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

• Format: Online with live classes and a cohort model
• Credit Hours: 65 credit hours
• Program Length: Approximately 3.5 to 4 years (accelerated option available for 2.5 to 3 years)
• Accreditation: COAMFTE accredited
• Internship Requirement: 300-500+ client contact hours
• Licensure Eligibility: Meets educational requirements for licensure in South Dakota, Pennsylvania, Texas, and 40 other states

Kairos University’s Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy emphasizes both professional skill development and personal growth. The program integrates faith-based learning with clinical training, preparing students for licensure as entry-level marriage and family therapists. Special emphasis is placed on the “self-of-the-therapist” approach, which encourages students to understand their own values, history, and emotional development as part of their clinical practice. The program’s cohort model fosters a strong learning community for mutual support and growth.

Loma Linda University

Program: Marital & Family Therapy, MS (Online)

• Format: Online with both synchronous and asynchronous courses
• Program Length: 2.5 years
• Credit Hours: Not specified in this listing
• Accreditation: COAMFTE accredited
• Internship Requirement: In-person practicum placement in the student’s geographic location (site approval required)
• Tuition Waivers: Available for those adding a Play Therapy or Drug and Alcohol Counseling certificate

Loma Linda University’s Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy offers a comprehensive academic and clinical experience, integrating faith-based values with therapeutic skills. The cohort model creates a supportive learning environment where students develop professional competence alongside personal growth. The program prepares students for diverse career paths, including roles as psychotherapists, educators, administrators, and clinic directors.

Syracuse University

Program: Online Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy

• Format: Fully online
• Credit Hours: 60 (51 required, 9 elective)
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
• Clinical Training: 500-hour supervised clinical practicum in students’ local communities
• Special Focus: LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, family violence, parenting challenges, and relationship dynamics within a social justice framework
• Licensure Preparation: Meets educational requirements for licensure in all 50 states

Syracuse University’s online Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy offers a rigorous, COAMFTE-accredited curriculum with a strong emphasis on cultural humility and social justice. The program prepares students to work with diverse populations in mental health settings, including hospitals, addiction treatment centers, schools, and private practice. A dedicated internship coordinator assists students in securing supervised clinical placements in their local communities.

Online COAMFTE MFT Doctoral Degrees

There are also several COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs for students seeking a doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy. Like other online degrees, online doctoral degree programs can offer students the flexibility to maintain other careers or prior commitments.

Loma Linda University

Program: Online DMFT in Marital and Family Therapy

• Format: Fully online
• Credit Hours: 78 quarter units
• Length: 3 years (full-time study)
• Accreditation: COAMFTE-accredited (only fully online DMFT program in the U.S.)
• Focus Areas: Clinical practice, program development, implementation, and evaluation
• Special Features: Opportunity to fulfill AAMFT-approved supervisor requirements before graduation

Loma Linda University’s Doctor of Marital and Family Therapy (DMFT) is designed for advanced practitioners seeking leadership roles in therapy, supervision, academia, and program administration. This fully online, COAMFTE-accredited program integrates a practitioner-evaluator model, emphasizing ethical leadership, cultural competency, and community-based mental health services. The curriculum supports both clinical skill development and expertise in program evaluation and grant writing.

National University

Program: Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy (PhD-MFT)

• Format: 100% Online
• Credit Hours: Minimum of 63 credits
• Length: Typically completed in 78 months
• Accreditation: COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited
• Specializations Available:
  • Child and Adolescent Therapy
  • Couple Therapy
  • Culture, Diversity, and Social Justice
  • Education and Supervision
  • General Family Therapy
  • Medical Family Therapy
  • Systemic Leadership
  • Therapy with Military Families

The PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University offers an advanced curriculum designed to develop students into skilled clinicians, researchers, and supervisors. The program integrates a blend of clinical training, research, and leadership development. Students gain practical experience through a nine-month, 20-hour-per-week internship and must complete 300 hours of direct client contact with a focus on relational therapy.

The program also features a dissertation requirement and portfolio-building courses that emphasize academic and clinical competence.

List of COAMFTE-Accredited Marriage and Family Therapy Programs

The Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) has accredited a range of marriage and family therapy (MFT) programs across the U.S. These programs are available in online, on-campus, and hybrid formats, allowing students to choose an option that best fits their educational and career goals.

The table below provides a comprehensive list of all COAMFTE-accredited programs as of early 2025. Prospective students should verify program formats and licensing requirements in their state before applying. For the most up-to-date information on accredited programs, including any recent additions or changes, visit the COAMFTE Directory of Accredited Programs.

LMFT Licensure

Becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) requires meeting state-specific licensing guidelines, which typically include earning an accredited degree, completing supervised experience, and passing a licensing exam. While each state sets its own requirements, most follow a structured process to ensure LMFTs are prepared to provide effective therapy in clinical and private practice settings.

For a full breakdown of licensing requirements, visit the LMFT licensure guide.

Why a Master’s in MFT for Licensure?

In most states, the minimum educational requirement for LMFT licensure is a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or a closely related field. Compared to bachelor’s programs, a master’s degree provides:

• Specialized coursework in systemic therapy, psychopathology, and ethics.
• Clinical fieldwork and practicums that offer real-world client experience.
• Accreditation alignment, particularly through COAMFTE-accredited programs, which help streamline the licensure process.

Students should verify that their MFT program is COAMFTE-accredited or meets their state’s licensing requirements to avoid delays in the licensure process.

Gaining Experience as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT)

After completing a master’s degree, most states require graduates to gain supervised clinical experience before becoming fully licensed. Many states issue a pre-licensure designation such as Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT), Registered MFT Intern, or an equivalent title, allowing graduates to work under supervision while completing the required hours.

• Supervised experience typically ranges from 1,500 to 4,000 hours, depending on state requirements.
• Work settings include private practice, mental health clinics, schools, and community agencies.
• Supervisors must be state-approved LMFTs (or, in some cases, licensed psychologists or social workers).

The AMFT period is crucial for developing clinical skills, case management experience, and professional competency before transitioning into independent practice.

Supervised Clinical Experience Requirements

In addition to post-graduate AMFT experience, most MFT master’s programs require students to complete practicum and internship experiences before graduation. After earning their degree, graduates must complete additional state-mandated supervised clinical work, which must be:

• Conducted under the direct supervision of an LMFT or another licensed mental health professional.
• Structured to include direct client work, case consultations, and professional evaluations.
• Properly documented and submitted to the state licensing board for approval.

Sitting for the AMFTRB MFT Exam

Once supervised experience requirements are met, candidates must pass the National MFT Examination, administered by the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).

The AMFTRB MFT Exam assesses candidates on:

• Clinical knowledge and therapeutic models
• Ethical and legal responsibilities
• Diagnosis, treatment planning, and crisis intervention

Some states also require an additional jurisprudence exam covering local laws and regulations.

Final Licensure and Continuing Education

After passing the exam and fulfilling all state licensing requirements, candidates submit their final licensure application. Once approved, they are officially recognized as LMFTs and can practice independently.

To maintain licensure, LMFTs must complete continuing education (CE) requirements, which typically include:

• Ethics and legal updates
• Clinical skills and emerging therapy techniques
• State-specific renewal requirements

Most states require 20-40 CE hours per renewal cycle, with some mandating coursework in ethics and cultural competency.

What Career Options Are There for an MFT?

Graduates of COAMFTE-accredited Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) programs have a diverse array of career opportunities across mental health, education, healthcare, and community service fields. Many roles require direct client interaction, while others focus on program development, advocacy, or leadership. The salary information included in this section was sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2025 and reflects 2023 median annual wage data.

Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs)

• Role Description: Diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage and family systems, providing therapy to couples, families, and individuals.
• Work Settings/Employers:
  • Private practices
  • Mental health centers
  • Substance abuse treatment facilities
  • Hospitals
• Median Annual Salary: $58,510

Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors

• Role Description: Assess and treat individuals struggling with substance use disorders, behavioral issues, and mental health conditions through therapy and intervention strategies.
• Work Settings/Employers:
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Individual and family services
  • Offices of other health practitioners
  • Residential mental health and substance abuse facilities
• Median Annual Salary: $53,710

Social and Community Service Managers

• Role Description: Oversee and coordinate programs that support public well-being, including social service initiatives, mental health programs, and nonprofit organizations.
• Work Settings/Employers:
  • Individual and family services
  • State and local government agencies
  • Religious, grantmaking, and civic organizations
• Median Annual Salary: $77,030

These roles offer MFT graduates a variety of career paths, allowing them to specialize in direct client care, program management, advocacy, and community outreach. Salary potential varies based on factors such as location, experience, and industry demand.

Other Relevant Career Paths for MFT Graduates

In addition to traditional LMFT roles, graduates of COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs can pursue careers in specialized counseling, advocacy, and organizational roles that leverage their expertise in relational and mental health therapy. While these roles may not have formal definitions in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) database, they represent real-world opportunities for MFT graduates looking to expand their career options.

Telehealth Therapist

With the growing demand for online therapy, many LMFTs work as telehealth providers, offering virtual counseling services through private practices, group practices, or digital mental health platforms. This role allows MFTs to provide therapy to clients across different locations while maintaining flexible schedules.

Corporate Wellness Counselor

Some MFT graduates work in corporate wellness programs, providing mental health education, stress management workshops, and employee counseling services. These professionals help employees navigate workplace challenges, burnout, and work-life balance issues.

Crisis Intervention Specialist

MFTs with experience in trauma-informed care may work in crisis response teams, providing short-term emergency mental health support for individuals in distress due to domestic violence, suicide risk, or natural disasters. These specialists often work for nonprofit organizations, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and crisis hotlines.

Family Court Mediator

LMFTs with expertise in family dynamics may pursue roles in family court mediation, helping parents navigate child custody disputes, divorce settlements, and co-parenting agreements. These professionals work within court systems, private mediation firms, and government agencies to resolve conflicts outside of litigation.

Military & Veterans Therapist

MFTs can specialize in working with active-duty service members, veterans, and military families, addressing PTSD, combat stress, family separation challenges, and reintegration issues. Many work within Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, military installations, or private clinics that cater to military populations.

Sex and Relationship Therapist

MFTs with advanced training in sex therapy and intimacy counseling can work with individuals and couples struggling with sexual dysfunction, relationship dissatisfaction, and intimacy concerns. While additional certification (such as AASECT certification) may be beneficial, MFT training provides a strong foundation for this specialty.

Adoption & Foster Care Counselor

MFT graduates can support adoptive families, foster children, and birth parents, providing therapy for attachment issues, trauma, and family integration challenges. These professionals often work for adoption agencies, foster care organizations, or private counseling practices.

Scholarships for Marriage and Family Therapy Students

Pursuing a COAMFTE-accredited Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) degree can be a significant financial investment, but scholarships and grants are available to help offset tuition costs. Many funding opportunities are tailored specifically to graduate students in mental health counseling, family therapy, and psychology. Below are some relevant scholarships for MFT students, along with eligibility details and application links when available.

National and Industry-Specific Scholarships

AAMFT Minority Fellowship Program (MFP)

• Award Amount: Varies (up to $25,000 for doctoral fellows)
• Eligibility: Open to MFT graduate students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds pursuing clinical work or research that benefits underserved communities.
• Offered By: American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)
• More Info: AAMFT Minority Fellowship Program

NBCC Minority Fellowship Program for Mental Health Counselors

• Award Amount: Up to $10,000
• Eligibility: Open to master’s and doctoral students in mental health counseling or MFT programs, with a commitment to serving underserved populations.
• Offered By: National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Foundation
• More Info: NBCC Foundation Scholarships

Psi Chi Graduate Scholarships

• Award Amount: $3,000
• Eligibility: Open to graduate students pursuing psychology or a related field, including MFT, who are members of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology.
• Offered By: Psi Chi
• More Info: Psi Chi Scholarships

SAMHSA Minority Fellowship Program

• Award Amount: Varies
• Eligibility: Open to graduate students pursuing a mental health-related degree, including MFT, who are committed to working with underserved and minority populations.
• Offered By: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• More Info: SAMHSA MFP

University-Specific Scholarships for MFT Students

Many universities offering COAMFTE-accredited MFT programs provide departmental scholarships, assistantships, and tuition waivers. Prospective students should check with their MFT program’s financial aid office for specific institutional scholarships.

State and Regional MFT Scholarships

Many state-level marriage and family therapy associations and mental health organizations provide financial support for students pursuing an MFT degree. For example, California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) Scholarships  provide funding to students in California-based MFT programs.

If you plan to work in a specific state, consider researching state-level MFT organizations for scholarship opportunities.

Employer and Community-Based Funding

Many employers, nonprofits, and community organizations offer scholarships for students entering mental health professions, including MFT. Some key options include:

• HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) Program – Offers tuition assistance for MFT students committed to working in high-need communities.
• Local Mental Health Foundations and Nonprofits – Many regional mental health organizations offer scholarships to graduate students in counseling and family therapy.

Final Tips for Finding MFT Scholarships

• Start Early: Many scholarship deadlines fall months before tuition payments are due.
• Check Professional Associations: Groups like AAMFT, NBCC, and state MFT organizations frequently update their funding opportunities.
• Explore Institutional Aid: Many MFT programs offer scholarships, grants, and assistantships—always check with the university’s financial aid office.

These scholarships and grants can help reduce the financial burden of earning an MFT degree, allowing students to focus on their education and clinical training.

Popular States for Marriage and Family Therapists

• California MFT
• Texas MFT
• New York MFT
• Florida MFT

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Is Every MFT Program Accredited by COAMFTE?

No, not all MFT programs are accredited by COAMFTE. While COAMFTE accreditation is a recognized standard for quality education in marriage and family therapy, some programs may hold accreditation from other organizations, such as CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) or regional accrediting bodies.

Enrolling in a COAMFTE-accredited program can streamline the licensure process in many states, as these programs are designed to meet established industry standards. Before selecting a program, students should review their state’s licensure requirements to confirm if COAMFTE accreditation is recommended or required.

Are COAMFTE-Accredited Programs More Expensive Than Non-Accredited Programs?

COAMFTE-accredited programs are not inherently more expensive than non-accredited programs. Tuition costs vary widely based on factors such as institution type (public vs. private), program format (online vs. in-person), and residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state tuition).

While some COAMFTE-accredited programs may have higher costs due to their comprehensive curriculum and fieldwork requirements, they may also provide stronger financial aid options, assistantships, or scholarships.

Students should weigh the value of COAMFTE accreditation — which can simplify licensure and improve career prospects — when comparing costs.

Does Graduating from a COAMFTE Program Guarantee LMFT Licensure?

No, graduating from a COAMFTE-accredited program does not automatically qualify you for LMFT licensure. While completing an accredited program fulfills the educational requirement for licensure, additional steps are required. These typically include completing post-graduate supervised clinical experience, passing the AMFTRB MFT National Exam, and meeting your state’s application and documentation requirements.

Licensure timelines and requirements vary by state, so it’s essential to consult your state’s MFT licensing board for detailed steps.

Can I Complete My COAMFTE-Accredited Program Entirely Online?

Yes, some COAMFTE-accredited programs are offered fully online, although most still require an in-person practicum or internship to fulfill clinical training requirements. Online MFT programs provide flexibility for working professionals and students who need distance learning options.

If you’re considering an online COAMFTE-accredited program, confirm that the practicum and internship opportunities meet your state’s licensure requirements.

What Are the Benefits of Choosing a COAMFTE-Accredited Program?

Choosing a COAMFTE-accredited program offers several key advantages:

• Ensures your education meets national standards for MFT training
• Provides coursework and clinical training that align with licensure requirements in most states
• May improve your eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and financial aid
• Demonstrates to employers that your training is high quality and credible

For students planning to move between states or pursue national certification, COAMFTE accreditation can help simplify the process.

Does a COAMFTE-Accredited Program Improve My Job Prospects?

Yes, graduating from a COAMFTE-accredited program can strengthen your job prospects. Many employers — especially in mental health agencies, family counseling centers, and private practices — prefer or require graduates from accredited programs.

Additionally, some states expedite the licensing process for COAMFTE graduates because their education aligns with established MFT standards.

What Financial Aid Options Are Available for MFT Students?

MFT students may qualify for a variety of financial aid opportunities, including:

• Federal student loans (FAFSA)
• State-based tuition assistance programs
• Scholarships for MFT students through organizations like AAMFT, NBCC, or individual universities
• Graduate assistantships or work-study programs

Students pursuing COAMFTE-accredited programs may also qualify for specialized mental health workforce grants aimed at increasing access to family therapy services in underserved areas.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a COAMFTE-Accredited Program?

Most master’s-level MFT programs take two to three years of full-time study to complete. Part-time students may take longer. Additionally, post-graduate supervised experience (required for licensure) may require one to three years of additional clinical work.

Doctoral MFT programs, often designed for research, teaching, or leadership roles, may take three to five years to complete.

Is COAMFTE Accreditation Required for Licensure in Every State?

No, COAMFTE accreditation is not required in every state, but it is widely recognized as a gold standard for MFT education. Many states accept COAMFTE-accredited programs as a way to streamline licensure requirements.

Some states may accept non-accredited programs if they meet specific coursework and clinical training benchmarks. Always check with your state’s licensing board to confirm requirements.

Find COAMFTE Accredited Online Programs

Becoming an MFT can be a fulfilling experience and offer a variety of career paths from which to choose. COAMFTE-accredited online programs can be a great stepping stone to beginning your career and deciding what type of MFT you would like to become. Explore some of the resources below to learn more about becoming an MFT and what areas you can work in.

Still Looking for a Counseling Degree?

Here are some of the most popular online counseling programs. On each page you will find a detailed write-up of the program, specific courses, and schools that offer that program that are currently accepting applicants.

• Online Counseling Degrees
• Online Masters in Counseling
• Bachelors in Counseling
• Masters in Counseling
• Counseling Schools by State
• Counseling Career Guide
• Highest Paid Counseling Jobs