Humans grow and evolve throughout their lives, from infants to adolescents to senior citizens. But how can we ensure that people reach their maximum potential and help them develop in the best way possible? The answer to that is simple; enroll in any of the Online MFT Programs to gain adequate knowledge on how to help people undergoing emotional traumas. Therefore, If assisting people in this manner is what you want to do professionally, this is the path for you. It’s a great career that will enable you to earn a decent income while putting smiles on people’s faces.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that the average annual pay of Marriage and Family Therapists was $49,880 in May 2021. Practitioners in this field can work in social service agencies, addiction treatment centers, and private practice. This essential guide is specifically for individuals whose ultimate objective is to help others daily. We have collected the 8 top universities providing Online MFT Programs, which we analyzed by comparing the uniqueness and what students stand to gain via the curriculum. We also considered accreditation and tuition.
Article Navigation: What is a MFT (Marriage and Family Therapist)? | Prerequisites for MFT Programs: MFT Degree Program Details | What Can You Do with an MFT Degree? | State Licensure Requirements to Become an LMFT | Top 8 Online MFT Programs | Are You Motivated? | Frequently Asked Questions: Top Online MFT Programs
What is a MFT (Marriage and Family Therapist)?
Marriage and Family Therapists are certified mental health specialists with expertise in family relations and psychosocial interventions. To illustrate, MFTs assist families or couples in resolving conflicts, navigating challenging situations, and managing emotional or psychological problems.
Therapist vs. Psychologist: What’s the Difference?
A therapist is a practitioner who is trained and typically licensed to offer a range of rehabilitation and therapies to people. In contrast, psychologists can conduct scientific studies, which is a crucial therapeutic and academic contribution to knowledge.
LMFT vs. LCSW: What’s the Unique Difference?
A licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) is a trained psychotherapist who works with families, e.g., married couples, to address relationship growth issues.
A licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) is a certified expert who promptly assists people in locating their required services and support.
LMFT vs. LPC: What are They?
LMFTs address issues emanating from marriage and family relationships. Meanwhile, LPCs handle various mental health problems that may have many underlying causes.
Prerequisites for MFT Programs: MFT Degree Program Details
This section focuses on marriage and family therapist education requirements that are obtainable across various colleges;
Application Requirements
Generally, the standard application requirements among different institutions require the submission of:
- Official college transcript
- Two letters of recommendations
- Essay
Note: Candidates must maintain a Grade Point Average of at least 2.90.
Coursework
Generally, CACREP accredited online MFT programs cover coursework in the following areas: addiction, family and child therapy, fundamental theories of psychotherapy, and behavioral sciences.
Field experience
Among most institutions’ marriage and family therapist education requirements, practicum experience is always made mandatory. For example, to earn an MFT degree, students will spend at least 2 to 4 complete semesters working in a family or marriage setting.
Clinical Placement Requirements
Depending on the state, graduates seeking a license must complete 150 to 250 hours of practicum experience.
Student Support For Online Students
Financial aid support is available to students offering online MFT programs. For families of veterans, military aid benefits are generally obtainable. Also, merit-based scholarships are available for students that perform academically well in their programs.
Furthermore, some institutions offer online support help to assist students facing underlying issues that likely interfere with their course of study.
What Can You Do with an MFT Degree?
For most students, having an idea of the marriage and family therapist’s salary is a no-brainer. Going further, a PhD in marriage and family therapy or a master’s in this field gives you opportunities to work in the following areas:
Substance Abuse and Addiction Specialist
Marriage and Family Therapists in this field educate patients about addictive behavior. For example, they help them identify the triggers contributing to the misuse of gambling, alcohol, food, drugs, and other social vices. The therapist then creates treatment strategies and assists patients in building strong networks of family and friends. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Substance Abuse and Addiction professionals made an average of $53,490 in May 2021. Moreover, the BLS estimates that employment for behavioral disorders, mental health, and substance abuse counselors will increase by 23% from 2020 to 2030.
Case Managers
MFTs in this field perform outpatient therapists’ functions in hospital facilities, collaborating with team members in medical centers. Specifically, they act as case managers and create effective treatment plans for hospitalized patients with less severe cases who are in crisis. They also offer to counsel married couples coping with a severe illness, families providing care for aging parents, and families of people with critical conditions. According to PayScale, marriage and family therapists working as case managers earned an average of $89,830 in 2022.
State Licensure Requirements to Become an LMFT
- To begin with, obtain a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited college with coursework in behavioral sciences.
- Then, obtain a Master’s degree in MFT that satisfies the state criteria, including any compulsory prerequisites for a supervised practicum or internship.
- Fill out an application form required for MFT intern licensure in any state of your choice.
- Complete the required residencies and clinical internships, which should last two years.
- Candidates are to spend between 1,500 to 4,000 hours in practice.
- Also, you must disclose to a criminal background investigation, if the state mandates one
- Lastly, pass the state-mandated jurisprudence exam and the Marriage and Family Therapy Test, if applicable.
Note: All CACREP accredited programs prepare students ahead of the state licensure.
Top 8 Online MFT Programs
1. Concordia University-Saint Paul
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), National Council on Family Relations (NCFR)
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Arts in Family Science
Duration: 2 years
Concordia University provides an online B.A. in Family Science to students globally. Depending on a candidate’s post-college objectives, they can select between the program’s two unique tracks (certification or non-certification). The education will equip learners with the necessary knowledge to positively impact the neighborhood through the subjects such as family law, family growth, and development. Online learning will also involve instruction from knowledgeable faculty members who will contribute their varied perspectives on family science. In short, the curriculum explores the broad philosophy and principles of family life education, such as the ability to plan, evaluate, and implement academic programs. Students gain the vital skills needed to establish and define leadership within the field. To get the practical experience necessary for job success, you’ll round off your education with a comprehensive internship.
Concordia ranks among the best institutions offering accredited online MFT programs.
Subsequently, graduates will:
- Clearly show their grasp of good relationships’ spiritual, social, and psychological facets.
- Plan, carry out, and assess programs for people and families by effectively implementing principles and theories of family life education.
2. Corban University
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Psychology/Family Studies
Duration: 2 years
Corban University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Family Studies. In this program, students will study the functioning of the human mind. They will also gain insights into answers that address questions such as; Why do we act in the ways that we do? How do age, trauma, and personality affect how we work, feel, and think? Learners will study these areas and discover how humans interact with themselves, their environment, and others.
Candidates will learn from encouraging Christian professors while acquiring the skills and knowledge beneficial for any people-focused career. The program prepares learners ahead of graduate school for those that wish to further their studies. At Corban, undergraduates can proceed to enroll in one of its MFT doctoral programs or the master’s in marriage and family therapy degree offered by the institution.
3. New England College
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Human Services
Duration: 4 Years
New England College provides a B.S. in Human Services. Students will learn the fundamental practices and theories of community resources and assistance. In short, this program prepares students for careers in mental health, criminal justice, social work, and community services, focusing on families, neighborhoods, and individuals.
The curriculum explores broad areas such as:
- Prejudice, Discrimination, and Social Justice
- Social Psychology
- On Being Human
- Global Perspectives
- Substance Abuse
- Client Assessment and Planning
Also, the learning objective of the program is to equip students on how to:
- Develop skills in case management, evaluating crisis situations, and individual and family assessments
- Analyze social, political, and economic forces affecting the welfare and social service systems.
4. Southern New Hampshire University (SHMU)
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Child and Adolescent Development
Duration: 2 to 4 years
Southern New Hampshire University provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development. Via the program’s curriculum, learners will gain a robust understanding and knowledge of young people’s psychological, physical, cognitive, and social demands. For instance, the curriculum strongly emphasizes experiential learning. Therefore candidates will gain practical experience through research projects, internships, and volunteer work. Before the completion of the program, students will develop an electronic portfolio that showcases their program experiences, from the knowledge gained while in the classroom to the practical applications they made of it.
The coursework areas include:
- Introduction to Psychology
- Child Development
- Adolescent Development
- Statistics for Psychology
- Scientific Investigations
- Capstone
Note: SHMU offers MFT doctoral programs to all eligible students.
5. American Public University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Family Studies
Duration: 4 years
American Public University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Family Studies. The academic program examines the influence of human interaction, highlighting how individuals are affected by their immediate environment and how it affects others.
The classes in this undergraduate program prepare students for becoming a Certified Family Life Educator or obtaining the Child Development Associate Certificate.
Students can expect coursework such as:
- Human sexuality
- Family life
- Lifespan development
- Family communications
- Parenting
Candidates will undergo exercises that put their knowledge into practice, from developing a preschool lesson plan to a parenting class manual or brochure. Even interviews with elderly persons about the aging process are activities that learners will engage in during the program. Also, an advantage students have in this institution is that it provides affordable online MFT programs and numerous financial aids to veterans and non-veterans.
6. Southeast Missouri State University (SMSU)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission, Certified Family Life Educator
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Family Studies
Duration: 2 years
Southeast Missouri State University provides an online B.A. in Family Studies. The degree program prepares learners for several jobs in community services, education, and government that center on families or household members at various stages of the life span. Furthermore, students will gain vital insights on how to design, assess, and carry out interventions to enhance family interactions.
Coursework areas cover topics such as:
- Introduction to Gerontology
- Introduction to Family Theories
- Family and Community Resources
- Family Policy Advocacy and Law
Before completing the program, candidates will:
- Gain practical experience while working with organizations and programs that support teens, parents, young children, senior citizens, pregnant teens, senior citizens, and the community.
- Learn about the many family dynamics, interactions, and developmental concerns that affect people of all ages.
Note: SMSU offers affordable online MFT programs to prospective students worldwide.
7. University of Colorado Denver
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Relations
Duration: 4 years
The University of Colorado offers an online Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Relations via its School of Education. Candidates may select the Family Diversity or Human Learning course specialization area as their degree focus. In particular, the coursework caters to learners who desire to work with individuals and families from varied linguistic and cultural backgrounds in the private or public sector. Also, every trainee is directly supervised and guided by one of the faculty members throughout the academic program. This mentoring approach has been proved and evaluated to assist all undergraduates immensely.
Note: Colorado University offers accredited online MFT programs in two specializations to cater to the needs of candidates that might be interested in Family Diversity as a specialty.
8. Washington State University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Arts in Human Development
Duration: 4 years
Washington State University provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Human Development. The curriculum centers on development in the school, community, home, and policy domains, while concentrating on improving the social, cognitive, physical, and emotional areas. For this purpose, students will gain insights from experts who teach and conduct research in various academic and professional fields to have a broad family and personal development perspective.
The coursework areas are:
- Family Interactions
- Human Development Theories
- Research Methods, Family Diversity
- Public Issues and Policy in Human Development
- Introduction to the Field of Human Development
- Human Development Across the Lifespan
Candidates will undergo real-world internships to showcase the skills and methods learned during the program to earn a bachelor’s degree. Learners who choose to further their studies can directly enroll in the master’s in marriage and family therapy degree at the institution.
Are You Motivated?
Marriage and family therapy may seem alluring due to its promising career prospects, adaptability, and high earning potential. However, most aspiring therapists are motivated by chance to help troubled families, individuals, and couples. They take delight in the fact that their efforts strengthen the bonds among people. Isn’t this fascinating? Yes, it is. The time is now for students who are yet to make up their minds. Because of the cutting-edge information in this article, we believe you will choose your preferred Institutions wisely.
Check out our educational resources to uncover more life-changing career paths. Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions: Top Online MFT Programs
What is a MFT?
MFTs specifically concentrate on the social conditions in which issues arise and human behavior’s relational and interpersonal components.
Is Becoming an MFT Worth It?
From an economic standpoint, earning a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy (MFT) is highly beneficial. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), MFTs made an average salary of $49,880 in May 2021. In addition, the employment rate for practitioners in this field will increase by 16% over the next ten years.
How to Become an MFT
Steps to take:
- Above all, obtain a bachelor’s degree
- Then, earn a Master’s degree in MFT
- Apply for a Licensure
- Lastly, opt for a Continuing Education
The list forms part of the prerequisites for MFT programs.
What Do Marriage and Family Therapists Do?
To begin with, MFTs work with families, couples, and individuals to ascertain the likely cause of their concerns by approaching the issues raised from family interactions. They specifically examine family influence and roles to determine how the patients’ families impact their mental well-being.
Is Becoming a MFT Hard?
In short, becoming an MFT is not hard. Nonetheless, focusing well on your studies will help you complete the degree in less time, while providing more time to explore different job roles in this field.
How Long Does it Take to Become an MFT?
A master’s degree in marriage and family therapy (MFT) generally takes two to four years. With state licensure inclusive, it will take 2 to 4 additional years to become an MFT. In brief, you can expect to spend between 5 to 6 years.
What is the Difference Between MFT and LPCC?
Marriage and family therapists (MFT) also offer to counsel but particularly concentrate on families and people undergoing crucial relationship and social issues. Also, licensed professional clinical counselors (LPCC) provide vital counseling to individuals with substance addiction and mental health problems.
Can Marriage and Family Therapists Diagnose?
Yes, they can, because MFTs are certified to evaluate and treat substance addiction and mental health problems.
What Makes a Good Marriage and Family Therapist?
Marriage and family counselors must have good communication skills to relate with patients. MFTs must also maintain good interpersonal skills to keep the existing patient-to-specialist relationship over a long period. In addition, they must have good writing skills to prepare reports and any other documentation necessary for every session with affected patients.
Can an MFT Prescribe Medication?
MFTs cannot provide medication prescriptions.
What Can an MFT Diagnose?
Marriage and family therapists treat various chronic clinical issues, such as personal psychological issues, marital issues, depression, anxiety, and cases concerning children and parents.
Are Online MFT Programs as Good as On-campus Programs?
Yes, they are. The only distinction between online MFT and On-Campus programs is the classroom encounter.
What is the Difference Between Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy?
Mental health counseling employs problem-solving and psychotherapy techniques to help affected individuals address evolving challenges in their life.
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) is a distinct form of psychotherapy that deals with how each family member behaves and how that attitude affects their connections with one another and the household.
How Long Does it Take to Become an MFT in California?
It takes between 2 to 4 years.
Which Degree is Better MFT or MSW?
Practitioners with just an MSW degree generally have more extensive, community-focused training. In contrast, those with an MFT typically have more focused psychotherapy training.
What are COAMFTE Accredited MFT Programs?
The COAMFTE accredited MFT programs are academic degree programs in marriage and family therapy that Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE) accredits.
Is a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy Worth it?
Indeed a Ph.D. in marriage and family therapy is worth it. In particular, a Ph.D. opens up more opportunities for employment or the training to open a private practice.
What are AAMFT Accredited Online Programs?
There is nothing like AAMFT accredited online programs. Remember, AAMFT stands for American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Therefore, it’s an association that you join after you have obtained a master’s or doctorate.
The Difference Between COAMFTE vs. CACREP?
Both COAMFTE and CACREP are government accrediting bodies.
CACREP stands for – Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. In contrast, COAMFTE stands for Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy.
What Does an LMFT Degree Stand For?
In the academic field, LMFT stands for; Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. However, an LMFT degree isn’t a degree in the real sense. It’s a license obtained by graduates who already have an MFT degree.
What are Online MFT Programs with no GRE?
In most online MFT programs, no GRE academic degree is obtainable in institutions that don’t require applicants to submit a GRE test score before enrollment.