The 7 Most Affordable COAMFTE Accredited MFT Programs Online | Extensive 2024 Guide

COAMFTE accredited MFT programs online foster rewarding careers in therapy and counseling! To begin with, the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), holds college programs to strict academic standards, ensuring each program it evaluates sets students up for success. The commission specifically oversees master’s, doctoral, and post-degree MFT programs with curriculum, faculty, and requirements all taken into account. Say you’re on the MFT track to pursue licensure in your state. In this case, a COAMFTE accredited program guarantees the clinical hours and courses to get you there!

If you have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, like psychology, social work, or counseling, an online MFT program is a logical next step. At the same time, MFT students must pursue clinical experiences. Then, upon graduation, pursue licensure.

The Marriage & Family Therapist path doesn’t have to be complicated or convoluted. However, there are a ton of options when it comes to choosing an online degree! Be that as it may, this article offers an acute list of the best and most affordable marriage and family therapy programs online. COAMFTE accreditation included! Read on to find out more.

Article Navigation: Accredited Online MFT Programs | Is COAMFTE Accreditation Important? | Top 2 COAMFTE Accredited MFT Programs Online Under $20K | The 6 Best COAMFTE Accredited Online MFT Programs Under $60K | Online MFT Program Curriculum | COAMFTE Accredited Doctoral Programs | LMFT Requirements and Career Opportunities | Career Opportunities with LMFT Licensure | Pursue COAMFTE Online Programs with GetEducated!

Accredited Online MFT Programs

Which Accreditation is Best for MFT Programs?

COAMFTE is widely recognized in the academic and professional world. It’s certainly one of the most reputable accrediting bodies for MFT graduate programs. In other words, graduating from a COAMFTE-accredited program can enhance your credibility. It will also increase your chances of meeting licensure requirements in many states. Many employers prefer COAMFTE degree accreditation, in fact. Of course, it’s essential to check the specific requirements of the state in which you intend to practice.

COAMFTE Requirements for Accreditation

The COAMFTE requirements for MFT online programs involve a rigorous process. Here’s a general overview:

• Curriculum Standards: COAMFTE accredited MFT programs online offer a thorough curriculum. It must cover essential topics in marriage and family therapy. This includes coursework in family systems theory, human development, ethics, and clinical practice.
• Clinical Training: Accredited programs must provide students with hands-on clinical training and supervised practice. This generally involves a specified number of supervised clinical hours working with clients, couples, and families.
• Faculty Qualifications: COAMFTE evaluates faculty members. This ensures they have the expertise and experience in the MFT field to teach it.
• Assessment and Evaluation: Programs are required to have systems in place to assess student learning and program effectiveness. This may include extensive exams, reviews of clinical skills, and program outcomes assessment.
• Admissions and Student Support: Accredited programs have rigorous admission criteria. This ensures that students are well-prepared for the demands of the field. In addition, they provide adequate academic and professional support services.
• Continuous Improvement: Programs are expected to engage in ongoing self-assessment. Continuous improvement efforts must be met to maintain and enhance program quality.

Is COAMFTE Accreditation Important?

COAMFTE accredited MFT programs online are vital to the profession. Again, accreditation signifies that a program or institution meets rigorous standards. It’s a stamp of quality assurance that employers, licensing boards, and clients look for when assessing the credentials of an MFT. Graduates are well-prepared to provide high-quality therapy services.

Also, an accredited degree enhances your professional credibility.  It even simplifies the licensure process. Many states require candidates to have completed a COAMFTE-accredited program to qualify for licensure. States that recognize COAMFTE degrees or have historically preferred it for licensure include:

• California
• Texas
• Florida
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• North Carolina
• Minnesota
• Oregon
• Utah
• Wisconsin

Furthermore, COAMFTE accredited online MFT programs provide the following indispensable qualities:

• Exhaustive training
• Ethical guidance
• Supervised practice

MFT Online Programs Career Prospects

Graduates from COAMFTE accredited MFT programs have excellent career prospects:

• Credential Recognition: COAMFTE is widely recognized and respected. Having a degree from an accredited program means you have taken the courses and completed the clinical hours to receive licensure as set by several states. COAMFTE adds a level of credibility, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
• Licensing Requirements: In many states, completing a program accredited by COAMFTE is a prerequisite for obtaining a license to practice. Without this, you may not be eligible for licensure in certain states.
• Competitive Advantage: An MFT degree demonstrates that you have received a high-quality MFT education. This can give you a competitive edge when seeking employment.
• Professional Development: COAMFTE accredited online MFT programs maintain high standards of education and training. Graduates of these programs are prepared for the demands of the profession.
• Networking and Resources: Accredited programs provide access to valuable resources. For example, research, faculty expertise, and alumni networks. These can enhance your career prospects by connecting you with experienced specialists in the field.

Top 2 COAMFTE Accredited MFT Programs Online Under $20K

Accredited marriage and family therapy programs online don’t have to break the bank. Cost is a key consideration for any graduate student. To this end, two notable online MFT programs stand out. They combine the highest quality of education with affordability. These programs offer a path to a fulfilling MFT career without exceeding a budget of $20,000. If you’re interested in excellence and cost-effectiveness, then check out the following programs.

1. Texas Woman’s University

   Degree: Master of Science in Family Studies
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $14,538.24

   The Texas Woman’s University MS in Family Studies program has unique features that set it apart in the field of family therapy education. These include features such as approval from the NCFR. Also, it meets the standards set by the Certified Family Life Educator designation. It’s one of the best online MFT programs ensuring the highest quality standards in MFT education.

   The program spans 36 credit hours. Plus, the curriculum is comprehensive, encompassing family therapy, research, and clinical practice. The program also focuses on experiential learning, offering internships and hands-on training to prepare graduates for real-world family therapy practice.

   By and large, the course offerings of the Texas Woman’s University program are diverse. Students can expect to gain a holistic knowledge of family dynamics and therapeutic approaches, for example. These courses cover subjects such as:

   – Family Life Education
   – Family Dynamics and Crisis Intervention
   – Ethics and Professional Issues in Marriage and Family Therapy
   – Multicultural Issues in Family Studies

   TWU provides plenty of flexibility through on-campus and online classes. That way, the school can accommodate various schedules. Moreover, students benefit from faculty expertise and valuable mentorship and guidance throughout the degree. Expect to complete 33 credit hours in total for this program. To culminate the program, students can pursue a thesis, professional paper, or professional portfolio track.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Family Studies

    

2. University of Southern Mississippi

   Degree: Master of Science in Child & Family Studies
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $18,324

   University of Southern Mississippi offers an affordable Master’s in Child & Family Studies. It is a part-time, fully online program. Even though this program is already quite affordable, students seeking scholarships to help with financial aid might be interested in the department’s 13 scholarships available each year. The degree provides a wide range of courses taught by exemplary faculty, such as:

   – Family advocacy
   – Intimate relationship development
   – Child development theories
   – Parenting across the life cycle

   These courses build a strong foundation for your future career. The program requires the completion of 37 credit hours, and you may choose between two tracks for this degree, a thesis track or a practicum experience. In addition, there are plenty of chances to take your research to the next level by presenting at conferences and collaborating with faculty. Students are encouraged to tackle pressing issues in child and family studies. With accessible tuition and broad curriculum, it’s an appealing choice for those dedicated to positively impacting the lives of children and families.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Child & Family Studies

    

The 5 Best COAMFTE Accredited Online MFT Programs Under $60K

Explore high-quality accredited online Marriage and Family Therapy programs that don’t break the bank. The list curated below is the top five such programs. Each holds a price under $60,000, while offering an excellent MFT online education. These programs can empower you with the knowledge and skills needed for a rewarding career. In addition, they have the flexibility to not upend your current lifestyle.

1. Touro University Worldwide

   Degree: Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $27,200

   Firstly, Touro University Worldwide offers one of the most affordable MFT online accredited programs. It’s a unique degree training culturally sensitive therapists with a holistic approach. Specifically, it emphasizes systemic and community contexts in mental health care.

   This MFT program online offers multiple tracks to suit diverse career paths. The Clinical Track combines online coursework with a 72-credit-hour program. That includes 300 practicum client contact hours. The Non-Clinical Track omits practicum and clinical hours. The Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling (LPCC) Track meets COAMFTE standards, totaling 82 credit hours with internships. The program requires 300 practicum client contact hours, 100 supervision hours, and 100 couple and family hours. The flexible online format caters to working students. Subsequently, graduates might pursue careers in mental health agencies, government settings, or private practice.

   The demand for MFTs is expected to grow substantially throughout the next decade. TUW’s MFT program equips graduates to excel in this expanding field. It emphasizes family dynamics in holistic mental health care, preparing competent and ethical therapists for an innovative career.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy

    

2. Lee University

   Degree: Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $27,500

   Secondly, Lee University’s MFT Program prepares students for licensure. It is unique in that it emphasizes a holistic, systemic, and faith-integrated approach. LU’s philosophy melds faith, science, and experience, promoting values like hope, love, and commitment. The program encompasses various student learning outcomes. For example, knowledge, skills, diversity, research, and ethics. The broad curriculum ensures graduates’ readiness for the field.

   There are also diverse tracks, each adhering to accredited program standards, to align with students’ career aspirations:

   – Clinical Track
   – Non-Clinical Track
   – Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling (LPCC) Track

   Students enjoy access to resources like the Writing Center, academic advising, and financial counseling. Emphasizing student engagement, students can contribute to policy development and program enhancements. The curriculum covers a wide array of subjects. For example, ethics, family stress, clinical assessment, and play therapy. Students gain their practical experience through internships and practicum courses. If you are a transfer student, this online MFT degree accepts six credit hours to transfer in. Overall, these MFT graduates are well-prepared to navigate and serve diverse populations. Rooted in faith-based principles, evidence-based practices, and ethical decision-making, the online MFT from Lee is an excellent start to your career.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy

3. National University

   Degree: Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $42,600

   Next up, National University boasts a longstanding legacy of providing high-quality education. In fact, this extensive MFT program holds dual accreditation. One from COAMFTE and the other from IACSTE. Overall, the degree has a strong commitment to meeting global standards for systemic therapy education. The exhaustive core curriculum encompasses 45 credit hours. Overall, the program expertly combines online coursework with vital hands-on experiences. These experiences provide students with a well-rounded education in marriage and family therapy. For example:

   – Practicum placements
   – Internships
   – Clinical supervision

   One of the program’s key strengths is its flexibility. It allows students to choose from various specialty tracks. These tracks cater to diverse interests and career goals, such as:

   – Child and Adolescent Family Therapy
   – LGBTQ Couple and Family Therapy
   – Trauma Informed Systemic Therapy

   In this case, students can tailor their education to align with their specific passions and goals. Graduates emerge equipped with a profound knowledge of systemic therapy, practical clinical skills, and a strong ethical foundation. They are especially well-prepared to excel in clinical settings. Plus, they know how to work with diverse populations and uphold the highest standards of ethical practice. All things considered, National University’s commitment to providing a top-notch education in marriage and family therapy positions its graduates for success in this vital and rewarding field.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

    

4. Abilene Christian University

   Degree: Master of Marriage & Family Therapy
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $48,495

   ACU offers an extensive MMFT program. In short, it focuses on relational, historical, developmental, social, and multi-generational contexts to address individual, couple, and family issues. Students may choose between the Marriage and Family Therapy (MFTH) or Thesis Track (MFTT). In either case, students must complete 60 credit hours within two years. Coursework is rigorous and exhaustive, covering topics such as:

   – Family Theory/General Systems Theory
   – Couples Therapy
   – Theological Perspectives on Human Behavior

   This MMFT program prepares ethical, diverse-respecting MFTs for clinical practice. Another popular route for graduates is COAMFTE accredited doctoral programs. Graduates have found work in settings from private practices and churches to schools. Also, adoption agencies and family service agencies. The program undoubtedly prioritizes excellent teaching practices. It includes a 500-hour clinical internship at the on-campus Marriage and Family Institute, starting in the first semester.

   This accredited program equips students with therapeutic knowledge and clinical experience needed for licensure. Another key point, studies pinpoint astute and relevant Christian principles in counseling. Admission requirements involve an online application and transcripts. In addition, students need a purpose statement, an on-campus interview with faculty, and more. Extended application deadlines are available, with interviews conducted accordingly.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Marriage & Family Therapy

    

5. Alliant International University

   Degree: Master of Arts in Marital & Family Therapy
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $59,680

   Lastly, Alliant International offers a Couple and Family Therapy program. The degree prepares students for diverse family therapy roles. The program is available online for flexibility. Students can expect compelling coursework. Topics range from parent-child therapy and couples therapy to theories, techniques, and more. Specifically, the program emphasizes cultural competency, ensuring culturally qualified graduates. Students can specialize in chemical dependency, gaining systemic expertise to address addiction in families.

   Another notable point of this degree is its portability. In other words, the MA MFT program enables graduates to meet licensure requirements in multiple states. Also, if you are looking for an online degree with quality hands-on training then this is your program. Students gain clinical experience totaling 600 to 1,300 hours for licensure through:

   – 300 direct client contact hours
   – 100 supervision hours
   – A minimum of 100 professional development hours

   While this is the more expensive option of our cheaper COAMFTE accredited MFT programs, Alliant does offer a financial perk. Loan reimbursement! Qualified students may receive up to $50,000 in loan reimbursement from the National Health Services Corps for two years of service in underserved areas. This MFT program produces respected family therapists and leaders in the field. Graduates find diverse career opportunities in mental health services and social work.

   Find Out More:
   Master of Arts in Marital & Family Therapy

    

Online MFT Program Curriculum

Next, let’s go over the specialized COAMFTE accredited marriage and family therapy programs online curriculum. In order to earn COAMFTE approval, schools must incorporate coursework related to cultural competency, diversity, and social justice. Graduates are well-prepared to work with diverse and marginalized populations. In addition, an accredited program includes courses on research methods and statistics. Students must engage in evidence-based practice and contribute to the advancement of the field. These course offerings contribute to the program’s quality. Also, to graduates competent in the MFT field.

On a more general note, COAMFTE places significant emphasis on foundational courses within an MFT online degree. These essential courses typically include foundational subjects such as:

• Family theory
• General systems theory
• Couples therapy
• Family therapy across the life cycle
• Understanding of the ethical and professional aspects of MFT

COAMFTE Accredited Doctoral Programs

Let’s say you’re interested in a doctoral program in Marriage and Family Therapy. In this case, you do not necessarily need an MFT master’s degree. COAMFTE accredited doctoral programs accept applicants from diverse academic backgrounds. However, specific admission requirements can differ among institutions. It’s essential to check the prerequisites of the program before you apply.

While an MFT may not be mandatory, having a related master's degree is essential. Related programs include counseling, psychology, social work, etc. Admissions committees assess candidates based on their academic background. Also, relevant coursework, clinical experience, research skills, and personal statements.

Furthermore, if you have a non-MFT master’s, some doctoral programs may offer bridge programs. Another quality to expect is additional coursework to meet foundational requirements.

LMFT Requirements and Career Opportunities

The requirements to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) might vary significantly from state to state. While COAMFTE sets accreditation standards for MFT programs, it doesn’t regulate state licensure requirements. Each state’s licensing board establishes its specific criteria for LMFT licensure. A general overview of the typical requirements for becoming an LMFT based on both state-specific and COAMFTE standards are as follows:

• Educational Requirements: To become an LMFT, most states typically need you to complete an accredited master’s or doctoral program. These programs usually consist of around 60 to 90 credit hours of coursework, including supervised clinical experience.
• Supervised Clinical Experience: You must complete a specified number of supervised clinical hours, often totaling around 3,000 hours. These hours involve working with individuals, couples, and families under the supervision of a licensed MFT.
• Pass Licensure Exam: After completing your education and supervised hours, you need to pass a state-recognized licensure exam, such as the National Examination in Marriage and Family Therapy. The passing score varies by state.
• State Licensure Application: Submit an application for LMFT licensure to your state’s licensing board. Requirements and fees differ by state.
• National Exam: Many states require candidates to pass a national licensure examination, such as the National MFT Examination administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).
• State Jurisprudence Exam: Some states may also have a state-specific jurisprudence or law and ethics exam.
• Application and Fees: Candidates typically need to submit an application to their state’s licensing board, pay application and examination fees, and undergo a criminal background check.
• Continuing Education: Most states require LMFTs to engage in ongoing professional development and continuing education to maintain their licenses.

Career Opportunities with LMFT Licensure

So, let’s say you’ve earned LMFT licensure through COAMFTE accredited MFT programs online. In this case,  you have a range of rewarding careers ahead. You can make a meaningful impact on individuals, couples, and families in need of professional guidance and support. Consider the following career paths through a COAMFTE accredited program:

• Private Practice: Many LMFTs choose to open their private therapy practices, providing services to individuals, couples, and families dealing with various issues such as relationship conflicts, mental health disorders, and life transitions.
• Family Therapist in Mental Health Clinics: LMFTs work in mental health clinics, helping clients address family-related concerns within the context of their overall mental health.
• School Counselor: LMFTs can work in educational settings as school counselors, assisting students and families in dealing with academic and behavioral issues.
• Community Mental Health Centers: LMFTs may find employment in community mental health centers, offering therapy to individuals and families facing mental health challenges.
• Substance Abuse Counselor: Some LMFTs specialize in treating individuals and families dealing with addiction and substance abuse problems.
• Mediation and Conflict Resolution: LMFTs can also pursue careers in mediation and conflict resolution, helping families and couples navigate divorce, custody disputes, or other conflicts.
• Research and Academia: LMFTs interested in research and education can become professors, teaching future therapists and contributing to the field’s knowledge base.
• Supervision and Consultation: Experienced LMFTs often provide supervision and consultation services to other therapists, helping them improve their clinical skills.
• Military and Veteran Support: Some LMFTs work with military personnel and veterans to address the unique challenges they and their families face.
• Nonprofit and Social Services: LMFTs can serve in various nonprofit organizations and social service agencies, providing counseling and support to underserved populations.

Pursue COAMFTE Online Programs with GetEducated!

Seeing that there are plenty of affordable options, you can now take the first step towards a rewarding career as a Marriage and Family Therapist and become a catalyst for healthier relationships and well-being. Explore accredited MFT programs on GetEducated.com for comprehensive program information and diverse career advice. Your choice empowers individuals, couples, and families, making a lasting difference. Start your journey today!