The Best Online Master’s in Marriage and Family Counseling Programs
Summary of work: More than 77 hours of research. Every online Master in Marriage and Family Counseling program in the US analyzed. 34 industry experts, hiring managers, current students, and alumni consulted. 31 of the best programs identified.
Our Picks
- 1Palo Alto University
- 2Messiah College
- 3Amridge University
- 4Touro University Worldwide
- 5Pepperdine University
- 6University of Colorado...
- 7California State University...
- 8John Brown University
- 9Campbellsville University
- 10California Baptist University
- 11Lancaster Bible College
- 12Fresno Pacific University
- 13Liberty University
- 14City University of...
- 15University of West...
- 16Indiana Wesleyan University...
- 17Abilene Christian University
- 18Regent University
- 19Lee University
- 20Southern California Seminary
- 21Houston Baptist University
- 22California School of...
- 23Antioch University New...
- 24Capella University
- 25Grand Canyon University
- 26Northcentral University
- 27Mid-America Christian University
- 28Seton Hill University
- 29Arizona State University
- 30University of Massachusetts...
- 31Walden University
Overview
Marriage and family counselors focus on the mental health and interpersonal relationships within households. The most common career path is family therapy-where professionals lead group and individual sessions for couples, children, parents, and relatives. To provide such focused care, most counselors pursue a master’s degree for the advanced training in everything from psychopathology to substance abuse and ethics.
Students also gain the opportunity to view the latest research and techniques necessary for success in marriage and family counseling. With rigorous coursework and supervised fieldwork, students learn the theoretical underpinnings of the field and how to put them to practice. The result? Degree holders become experts in healing relationships and ensuring the mental health of those who need care.
-
WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A MASTER'S IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY COUNSELING?
-
CAN YOU GET A MASTER'S IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY COUNSELING ONLINE?
-
HOW WELL ACCEPTED ARE ONLINE MARRIAGE AND FAMILY COUNSELING MASTER'S PROGRAMS?
-
HOW CAN I GET A MASTER'S DEGREE IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY COUNSELING?
-
IS A MASTER'S IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY COUNSELING WORTH IT?
In addition, marriage and family counselors are needed more than ever. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that demand for counselors is expected to grow by 23% – much faster than average. It’s not surprising considering the importance and benefit of seeking therapy is gaining recognition. In other words, a master’s degree in marriage and family counseling can lead to a rewarding career that provides a direct and positive impact on others.
For more more resources and career information related to this degree, please read our career guide here.
Our Methodology
Best Online Masters in Marriage and Family Counseling Programs
We took a deep-dive and analyzed every online Masters in Marriage and Family Counseling program in the nation. Below are the results of our analysis and a list of the 31 best online Masters in Marriage and Family Counseling programs.
Read about our methodology here.
Palo Alto University
1791 Arastradero Road Palo Alto, CA 94304Palo Alto University believes that students learn best by doing, so it has a demanding clinical practicum as part of its coursework. Students must participate in and complete 700 hours worth of counseling training if they want to earn their master's in marriage and family counseling degree.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Pacific Graduate School of Psychology
Program Name: M.A. Counseling: Marriage, Family and Child Counseling Emphasis
Available Concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Emphasis, Marriage, Family and Child Counseling Emphasis
Accrediting Body: CACREP
DeliveryFormat: Online. On-Campus
Instruction Style: Synchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally-accredited institution, or the international equivalent
Credit Requirements: 93 credits
Field Education Requirements: 700 hours of counseling-related experience over a 9 to 12 month period
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2 years and 3 months
Program start dates: Fall: September; Spring: April
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
School Type
Prvate, Non-profit
Tuition
$523 per credit
Messiah College
One College Avenue Mechanicsburg, PA 17055Messiah College offers an online master's in marriage and family counseling program that prepares students for licensure in Pennsylvania. Graduates who complete the program and earn their master's degree are eligible to earn a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Counseling to further their careers.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Graduate Studies
Program Name: Master of Arts - Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Available Concentrations: Clinical mental health counseling, Marriage, couple and family counseling, School counseling
Accrediting Body: CACREP, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Higher Education
DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchrinous, Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's or Master's degree
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: Practicum and internship
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-6 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
81%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$660 per credit
Amridge University
1200 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117Amridge University's online master's in marriage and family counseling program not only prepares students for careers as family therapists but also for entering the Ph.D. program. Graduates who earn their master's in counseling degree are ready to pursue their doctorate for major career advancement.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Human Services
Program Name: MA in Marriage and Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: SACSCOC
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous, Synchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally or selected nationally accredited institution
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: Practicum and clinical experiences courses
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 7 semesters
Program start dates: Fall, Summer
Admission RequirementsGPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
18%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$650 per credit
Touro University Worldwide
1310 Club Dr Vallejo, CA 94592Touro University offers an affordable master's in marriage and family counseling program for distance learners. The average tuition price is $500 per semester credit, which brings the total to about $9,000 for students who want to earn their master's degree online.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: The Edith Neumann School of Health and Human Services
Program Name: M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy
Available Concentrations: Clinical, Non-clinical, Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling (LPCC)
Accrediting Body: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), COAMFTE
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
Credit Requirements: 54 credits
Field Education Requirements: 500 total practicum client contact hours
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: October 19; Spring: December 28, February 22; Summer: April 25, June 22
GPA: 2.5
Graduation Rate
60%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$500 per credit
Pepperdine University
24255 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90263Pepperdine University's online master's in marriage and family counseling program is designed to meet California's requirements for state licensure. Students learn coursework in everything from clinical psychology to family therapy, earning their master's degree and becoming licensed to work in public and private practices in the state.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate School of Education and Psychology
Program Name: Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, American Psychological Association
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree in any field
Credit Requirements: 62-68 credits
Field Education Requirements: Supervised counseling experience in the community
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time,part-time
Program Length: 24-36 months
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Winter: November 20; Spring: February 12; Summer: May 14; Fall: August 13
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
84%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$1,530 per credit
University of Colorado Denver
1201 Larimer Street Denver, CO 80204The University of Colorado Denver offers an online master's in counseling program with a dedicated practicum to prepare graduates for work in their own practices. Students receive continuous feedback from the faculty and clinicians during the practicum, which is held in the on-campus counseling center, giving students the skills to succeed as marriage and family counselors after earning their degree.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Education and Human Development
Program Name: MA Counseling, Concentration: Couple and Family Counseling/Therapy
Available Concentrations: Clinical Mental Health​, Couple and Family Counseling/Therapy, Higher Education and Student Affairs​, School Counseling
Accrediting Body: CACREP, COAMFTE
DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Asynchronous, Synchronous
Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 63 credits
Field Education Requirements: Practicum and internships
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring: January 1, 2019; Summer: May 15, 2019; Fall: August 1, 2019
GPA: 2.3
Graduation Rate
40%
School Type
Public
Tuition
In-state: $377 per credit; Out-of-state: $1,255 per credit
California State University - Northridge
18111 Nordhoff Street Northridge, CA 91330California State University in Northridge prepares graduates for careers in counseling with an innovative curriculum that includes everything from modern therapy development to best practices and approaches to solving issues. Students who earn their master's in counseling degree at CSU will have the skills to work with couples, families, children and groups in both public and private practices.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Educational Psychology and Counseling
Program Name: M.S., Counseling Marriage and Family Therapy
Available Concentrations: Career Counseling, College Counseling and Student Services, Marriage and Family Therapy, School Counseling, School Psychology
Accrediting Body: CACREP
DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 64-67 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: October ; Winter: June1; Spring: AUgust 1; Summer: February 1
GPA: 2.5
Graduation Rate
47%
School Type
Public
Tuition
$4,161 per semester
John Brown University
2000 W. University St Siloam Springs, AR 72761John Brown University's online master's in marriage and family counseling program teaches students how to become better counselors through the use of live therapy sessions. Students in this program will conduct therapy sessions and receive invaluable feedback from peers and professors, helping to improve their skills for use in the field.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate Counseling
Program Name: MS in Marriage and Family Therapy
Available Concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 64 credits
Field Education Requirements: 500 direct client contact hours, in which 250 hours must be completed in systematic/relational hours
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3.5 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: June 30; Spring: October 31; Summer: March 31
GPA: 2.7
Graduation Rate
61%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$560 per credit
Campbellsville University
1 University Dr Campbellsville, KY 42718Campbellsville University has an online master's in marriage and family counseling program that prepares graduates for counseling careers in Kentucky. This program is accepted by the Kentucky Board of Licensure for Marriage and Family Therapists and gives graduates the skills to lead successful counseling careers after college.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Louisville Graduate Programs
Program Name: Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: SACSCOC
DeliveryFormat: Online
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: Practicum
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3 years
Program start dates: Fall, Winter, Summer, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
39%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$399 per credit
California Baptist University
8432 Magnolia Ave Riverside, CA 92504California Baptist University prepares students for therapist careers in organizations with employee assistance programs. Graduates who earn their online master's in marriage and family counseling degree are prepared to work with employees and their family members to address issues that affect their overall quality of life or job performance.
Program OverviewProgram Name: Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Accrediting Body: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous, Synchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree
Credit Requirements: 62 units
Program LengthProgram Length: 2 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: April 1; Spring: November 1; Summer: March 1
GPA: 3.0
School Type
Private
Tuition
$701 per unit
Lancaster Bible College
901 Eden Rd Lancaster, PA 17601Lancaster Bible College offers a master's in counseling program with a concentration in family ministry, which is ideal for students who want to counsel families from a Christian perspective. Students are taught both psychological and theological principles regarding counseling to help mend family issues in their own careers.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Capital Seminary & Graduate School
Program Name: Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling
Available Concentrations: Church Planting, Leadership Studies, Pastoral Studies, Youth & Young Adult Ministry
Accrediting Body: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), The Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation (ABHE)
DeliveryFormat: Blended
Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: Internship
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3 years
Program start dates: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.75
Graduation Rate
62%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$535 per credit
Fresno Pacific University
1717 S Chestnut Ave Fresno, CA 93702Fresno Pacific University offers an online master's in marriage and family counseling program with an option for students to study abroad in Israel every summer. This option is ideal for students who want to learn multicultural principles and techniques in regard to counseling families from different backgrounds.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary
Program Name: Master of Arts Marriage and Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: Association of Theological Schools (ATS), Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
DeliveryFormat: Blended
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from an accredited University
Credit Requirements: 65 credits
Field Education Requirements: 3,000 hour internship
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring: December 31, 2018
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
63%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$525 per credit
Liberty University
1971 University Blvd Lynchburg, VA 24515Students who have earned credits from an accredited university can use them to expedite their online master's in marriage and family counseling degree from Liberty University. The school allows up to 15 transfer credits, helping students focus on only the courses that they need to graduate early.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Behavioral Sciences
Program Name: Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: SACSCOC
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: 1 semester practicum and 2 semesters of internship
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2.5 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring: January 7, 2019; Summer: May 1, 2019
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
50%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$565 per credit
City University of Seattle
521 Wall Street, Suite 100 Seattle, WA 98121The City University of Seattle offers the most flexible master's in marriage and family counseling program for students who want to earn their degree online. Students benefit from flexible scheduling and asynchronous coursework, giving them the ability to complete the lessons on their own schedule, which is perfect for working professionals who have full-time career obligations.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Health and Human Services
Program Name: Master of Arts in Counseling
Available Concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Addiction Counseling, Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling, Professional School Counseling
Accrediting Body: CACREP
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from an accredited or otherwise recognized institution
Credit Requirements: 90 credits
Field Education Requirements: Internships, Practicum
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3 years
Program start dates: Fall
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.75
Graduation Rate
100%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$590 per credit
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL 35470Students who want to communicate easily with peers while receiving more one-on-one time with professors should consider enrolling in the University of West Alabama. The online master's in marriage and family counseling program normally has less than 15 students in the class, making it easy for them to get answers to questions or support when they need it.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Psychology and Counseling
Program Name: M.S. Family Counseling
Accrediting Body: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree
Credit Requirements: 33 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 1 year
Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring: January 2, 2019, March 4, 2019
GPA: 2.75
Graduation Rate
33%
School Type
Public
Tuition
$429 per credit
Indiana Wesleyan University - Marion
4201 S Washington St Marion, IN 46953Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion offers an online master's in marriage and family counseling program for distance learners but will also appeal to local students for its hybrid format. The university has an ultramodern research and therapy center where students can learn through hands-on training with supervised counseling sessions and both faculty and peer feedback.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Business
Program Name: Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy
Available Concentrations: Clinical Addictions Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Community Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy, School Counseling, Student Development Administration,
Accrediting Body: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), Council of Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting body or by the Association for Biblical Higher Education
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: 100 practicum hours and 900 internship hours
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: June 1; Spring: October 15
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
63%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$546 per credit
Abilene Christian University
1600 Campus Court Abilene, TX 79699Abilene Christian University's online master's in marriage and family counseling program has a specialization in medical family therapy for graduates who want to work with families during stressful times. Graduates learn the skills to advance into a clinical or research career and to work with individuals, families and couples who are dealing with troubling medical situations.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Health and Human Services
Program Name: Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Available Concentrations: Child and Adolescent Therapy, Medical Family Therapy, Treatment of Trauma
Accrediting Body: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university or equivalent
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: 500-hour internship
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 33 months
Program start dates: Spring, Summer, Fall
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: February 15
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
62%
School Type
Private Non-Profit
Tuition
$825 per credit
Regent University
1000 Regent University Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23464Regent University prepares graduates for careers as Christian family therapists in faith-based settings such as churches or in their own private practices. Students learn how to counsel families and couples regarding relationship issues, parenting troubles and more using techniques that align with Christian values.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Psychology & Counseling
Program Name: M.A. in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling
Accrediting Body: APA, CACREP
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: B.A. or B.S. from a regionally accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: July 1; Spring: December 1
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
50%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$710 per credit
Lee University
1120 N Ocoee Street Cleveland, TN 37311Lee University's online master's in marriage and family counseling program prepares graduates for careers in administration at family ministries and church-based agencies that specialize in family services. Students learn from a rigorous curriculum that includes topics in human development, data research and more, giving them the skills to assume administrative positions after college.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Program Name: Master of Science, Marriage and Family Studies
Accrediting Body: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
Credit Requirements: 36 credits
Field Education Requirements: 500 hours direct client services, 250 of which must be with couples and families
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2-3 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: April 1; Spring: November 1
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
54%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$710 per credit
Southern California Seminary
2075 E. Madison Ave El Cajon, CA 92019Southern California Seminary offers an online master's in marriage and family counseling program with specialized coursework in substance abuse counseling. Graduates who earn their degree gain the skills to work with families who are dealing with substance-use disorders in their home.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Graduate Behavioral Science
Program Name: Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 78 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2.5 years
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
100%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$541 per credit
Houston Baptist University
7502 Fondren Rd Houston, TX 77074Houston Baptist University offers an online master's in marriage and family counseling degree through a comprehensive program that takes up to three years to complete. Students engage in an exhaustive curriculum that includes 60-credit hours of foundational coursework, 700 hours of supervised practicum and 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience in the field to achieve licensure in the state.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling
Program Name: Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: 700 hours of supervised practicum in a counseling setting and 3,000 hours of supervised work experience for licensure eligibility
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring: January 2, 2019, March 6, 2019
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
45%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$550 per credit
California School of Professional Psychology
10455 Pomerado Rd San Diego, CA 92131Alliant International University offers an online master's in marriage and family counseling program through the California School of Professional Psychology. This program is catered toward students who want to work as mental health practitioners and to pursue careers in mental health facilities working with individuals, couples, groups and families.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: California School of Professional Psychology
Program Name: Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy
Available Concentrations: Chemical Dependency, Gerontology, Latin American Family Therapy, LGBT Human Services and Mental Health, Infant-Preschooler Mental Health
Accrediting Body: APA, COAMFTE
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution or its international equivalent
Field Education Requirements: 500 hours of intensely supervised direct client contact, at least 200 of which are spent with couples or families, 100 hours of individual and group supervision, at least 50 of which are based on direct observation or videotape
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2.5-3 years
Program start dates: Fall (August) and Spring (January)
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
School Type
Private for-profit
Tuition
$925 per credit
Antioch University New England
40 Avon St Keene, NH 3431Antioch University's online master's in marriage and family counseling program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education. This specialized accreditation not only meets the state's requirements for licensure but also for national licensure, meaning that distance learners are able to earn their counseling licensure from Antioch University regardless of their residence.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Counseling, Therapy & Wellness
Program Name: MA in Marriage and Family Therapy
Available Concentrations: Addictions Counseling, Counseling in Trauma, Counseling Military Personnel and Their Families
Accrediting Body: Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Synchronously, asynchronously
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree
Credit Requirements: 61 credits
Field Education Requirements: Practicum and interships
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 33 months
Program start dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Spring: December 1; Fall: July 1
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$949 pe credit
Capella University
225 South 6th St Minneapolis, MN 55402Capella University's faculty all hold their doctorate degrees and continue to provide counseling services in their own professions. The faculty not only teaches the students on campus but also distance learners who are earning their master's in marriage and family counseling degrees online.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Counseling and Human Services
Program Name: MS in Marriage & Family Counseling/Therapy
Accrediting Body: COAMFTE, CACREP
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency or an internationally recognized institution
Credit Requirements: 92 credits
Field Education Requirements: Practicum, 2 Internships
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program start dates: Summer, Spring, Winter, Fall
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.7
Graduation Rate
17%
School Type
Private for-profit
Tuition
$487 per credit
Grand Canyon University
3300 West Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85017Grand Canyon University's online masters in marriage and family counseling program is catered to distance learners in Arizona who want to achieve licensure for counselor positions in the state. Though this program doesn't automatically lead to certification, it prepares graduates for the certification exam after graduation.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Program Name: Master Of Science In Clinical Mental Health Counseling With An Emphasis In Marriage And Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: Online, Hybrid
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or program that has been approved by Grand Canyon University (GCU)
Credit Requirements: 74 credits
Field Education Requirements: Practicum and 2 internships
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 8 weeks
Program start dates: Summer, Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 2.8
Graduation Rate
28%
School Type
Private for-profit
Tuition
$515 per credit
Northcentral University
8667 E Hartford Dr Scottsdale, AZ 85255Northcentral University offers an online master's in marriage and family counseling program with a specialization in LGBTQ couples and family therapy. Students learn from online coursework and hands-on training to gain the skills to work with LGBTQ couples or families who have members in the LGBTQ community.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Marriage and Family Sciences
Program Name: Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Available Concentrations: Marriage and Family Therapy, California Licensure Track, Child and Adolescent Family Therapy, Couple Therapy, General Family Therapy, LGBTQ Couple and Family Therapy, Medical Family Therapy, Military Family Therapy
Accrediting Body: COAMFTE, IACSTE, WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited or approved international institution
Credit Requirements: 45 credits
Field Education Requirements: Practicum/internship coursework
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 33 months
Program start dates: Monday of each week
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.33
Graduation Rate
52%
School Type
Private for-profit
Tuition
$2,646 per course
Mid-America Christian University
3500 SW 119th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73170Mid-America Christian University believes in providing benefits to active-duty service members, military veterans and their family members. As a participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program, the university offers financial benefits to military members who want to earn their online master's in marriage and family counseling degree.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: School of Psychology & Behavioral Science
Program Name: Master of Science in Counseling, Marital, Couples and Family Counseling/Therapy Emphasis
Available Concentrations: Addiction and Substance Abuse Counseling, Applied Behavioral Science, Clinical Mental Health Counseling,Marital, Couples and Family Counseling/Therapy
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: Online, On-Campus
Program requirementsCredit Requirements: 60 credits
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 2.5 years
Program start dates: November, December, January
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
31%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$639 per credit
Seton Hill University
1 Seton Hill Drive Greensburg, PA 15601Seton Hall University's online master's in marriage and family counseling program gives graduates the skills to work in premarital therapy. Graduates gain the skills to work with couples who face issues before marriage and help to resolve conflicts that could lead to separation.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Applied Social Sciences
Program Name: Marriage & Family Therapy (M.A.)
Accrediting Body: COAMFTE
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Synchronous, Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, Official undergraduate transcripts from all institutions attended
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: 3000 hours of supervised clinical practice
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 6-12 semesters
Program start dates: Fall, Spring
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
60%
School Type
Private Non-profit
Tuition
$764 per credit
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ 85281Arizona State University offers an online master's in marriage and family counseling program with an accelerated format for students who want to earn their degree quickly. Students can tailor the classes to suit their graduation goals and complete their degree in 15 to 18 months.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics
Program Name: Marriage and Family Therapy, MAS
Accrediting Body: HLC
DeliveryFormat: On-Campus
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. or equivalent
Credit Requirements: 39 credits
Field Education Requirements: 300 client contact hours in a 12-month community internship
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time
Program Length: 15-18 months
Program start dates: Fall
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Fall: February 1, 2019
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
63%
School Type
Public
Tuition
$475 per credit
University of Massachusetts Boston
100 William T. Morrissey Blvd. Boston, MA 2125The University of Massachusetts has an online master's in marriage and family counseling program with a focus on urban communities. Graduates learn various topics in human development and how to work with marginalized families and individuals in urban areas.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Department of Counseling and School Psychology
Program Name: Family Therapy, MS
Accrediting Body: Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous,Synchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree
Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Field Education Requirements: 900 hours (300 hours/semester) internships
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 3-4 years
Program start dates: Summer,Fall
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Work Experience: 1 year of human services experience
Graduation Rate
42%
School Type
Public
Tuition
In-state: $746 per credit; Out-of-state: $1,470 per credit
Walden University
100 Washington Avenue South, Suite 900 Minneapolis, MN 55401Walden University's online master's in marriage and family counseling program offers a specialization in military families and culture. Graduates are prepared to address issues regarding military families and to resolve conflicts related to separation, trauma and more.
Program OverviewDepartment Name: Psychology and Counseling
Program Name: MS in Marriage Couple and Family Counseling
Available Concentrations: General Program, Addiction Counseling, Career Counseling, Forensic Counseling, Military Families and Culture, Trauma And Crisis Counseling
Accrediting Body: CACREP
DeliveryFormat: Online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Program requirementsPrerequisites: Bachelor's degree or higher
Credit Requirements: 90-96 quarter credits
Field Education Requirements: 9-15 credits: Practicum, 100 hours; Internship, 600 hours
Program LengthProgram Options: Full-time, part-time
Program Length: 48 months
Program start dates: November 26, 2018
Admission RequirementsApplication deadline: Rolling
GPA: 3.0
Graduation Rate
33%
School Type
Private for-profit
Tuition
$465 per quarter