12 Affordable Online MFT Programs for 2025

The marriage and family therapy field is booming. Online MFT programs are more accessible and affordable than ever before. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a remarkable 16% growth in the next decade that will create about 5,900 job openings annually.

A therapist’s median annual salary of $63,780 makes this career path attractive. Traditional MFT programs can cost up to $86,000, but you don’t need to spend that much. Quality education costs less than $14,800 per year with the most affordable online MFT programs. Public universities charge an average of $12,596 while private institutions cost around $28,017.

Quality education doesn’t have to break the bank. We’ve put together a detailed list of 12 accredited options that can save you thousands. These programs prepare you for licensure in multiple states effectively.

1. National University

National University leads the field of online MFT education as the first online MFT program to earn accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). This innovative program delivers high-quality training that doesn’t require travel for in-person residencies.

National University MFT program overview

The Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program at National University features a practical curriculum based on systems theory. The program aims to develop therapists who are competent, ethical, and culturally aware. Students benefit from:

• Online coursework with clinical placement in their local community
• Complete training through diverse learning materials like textbooks, journal articles, and educational videos
• Weekly assignments with Sunday midnight deadlines in 8 or 12-week courses

Students need 45 credits of coursework and clinical experience. Some states require 60 semester credits for licensure, and extra courses are available. Most students take 6-8 courses each year and finish their degree in 2-3 years. Clinical training starts after the ninth course in the 45-credit program or the thirteenth course in the 60-credit program.

Tuition and affordability

National University keeps its graduate tuition rates simple and competitive:

The total estimated cost for graduate programs at National University reaches $16,416 for tuition. Students pay a one-time learning management fee of $450 and spend about $936 on books and course materials. The university helps students with financial aid options and scholarships.

MFT accreditation and licensure readiness

National University’s steadfast dedication to quality education shows through its accreditations and approvals. The program has:

• COAMFTE accreditation, the highest recognition possible for an MFT program
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) approval
• California Board of Behavioral Sciences (CA-BBS) pre-approval for meeting California’s MFT licensure educational requirements

Students seeking California licensure must enroll in the specialized 60-credit California Track. The university’s Supervision Methods course has American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) approval, which counts toward becoming an AAMFT Approved Supervisor.

Licensure requirements differ by state. National University offers extra courses beyond the 45 credits to meet your state’s specific licensure needs. Students join weekly group supervision through secure online video conferencing that follows HIPAA regulations.

2. Liberty University

Liberty University offers a faith-based approach to marriage and family therapy education through their fully online Master of Arts program. This CACREP-accredited program blends professional counseling practices with biblical principles. You’ll be prepared for career success and spiritual service.

MFT program structure

The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy needs 60 credit hours of coursework that meets Virginia’s licensure requirements for Marriage and Family Therapists. The curriculum has:

• Core counseling theory and practice courses
• Specialized marriage and family therapy training
• Practicum and internship experiences with couples and families
• Research methodology and statistics applications

Your practicum and internship give you hands-on experience as you work with couples, families, and individuals from a systems point of view. Most direct service hours must involve couples and family units to meet state licensure requirements. This program structure gets you ready for real-life professional practice while keeping academic standards high.

Tuition and financial aid

Liberty University stands out as one of the most affordable online MFT programs with competitive tuition rates:

In the last seven years, Liberty has raised tuition by less than 4%. This places them in the top 25% for affordability among leading private universities. Liberty’s financial aid options are extensive:

• Graduate Student Assistantships providing free tuition plus stipends
• Federal loans (up to $20,500 for most graduate students)
• The Charles B. Keesee Educational Fund for ministerial education
• Military discounts that cut tuition by over 50%

An impressive 95% of Liberty’s students get some form of financial aid, which makes the program much more accessible.

Christian-based curriculum

Liberty’s program stands out by combining cutting-edge research with a biblical worldview. The curriculum prepares therapists to help with their client’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Liberty’s program follows their mission to “Train Champions for Christ” as one of the largest Christian universities nationwide.

Faculty members deliver quality professional training from a faith-based point of view. Students learn to ethically blend faith and spirituality into client care. This unique skill makes Liberty graduates different. They can use spirituality as a key part of comprehensive client treatment while staying culturally sensitive and maintaining professional standards.

Liberty’s Christian foundation puts Christ at the center of relationships, especially when working in marriage and family therapy. This gives students a unique way to help families heal.

3. Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide has a flexible, COAMFTE-accredited online MFT program with multiple educational tracks that fit your career goals. The program is one of the most affordable online MFT programs and gives you quality education that’s both convenient and valuable.

MFT program highlights

Touro’s MFT program stands out because of its scientist-practitioner model that helps you make unique contributions to the field. You can choose from three distinct tracks:

• MFT Clinical Track (60 credits + 300 practicum hours)
• LPCC Track (73 credits, 450 practicum hours)
• Non-Clinical Track (54 credits, for those not pursuing licensure)

The academic format runs completely asynchronously without mandatory login times, so you can study when it works best for you. Each course runs for eight weeks and has pre-recorded videos, weekly readings, discussion posts, and writing assignments. Your tuition covers all materials—you won’t need to buy extra textbooks.

Touro University MFT pricing and value

At $525 per semester credit, Touro University uses “locked-in tuition,” which means your rate stays the same throughout your program as long as you keep studying. Here’s what you’ll pay:

The full program costs about $36,000 in total tuition. This price is a great deal since it covers all your course materials, making it one of the most affordable MFT programs around.

Touro University MFT accreditation and practicum

The Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) accredits Touro University Worldwide’s MFT Clinical Track program. Graduates meet all educational requirements to get their MFT license in California without extra coursework, thanks to approval from the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.

Your practicum needs 300 client contact hours, with at least 100 hours focused on couples and families. You’ll also need 100 supervision hours with site supervisors and TUW supervisors. While Touro doesn’t find practicum sites for students, they help you through the process. You’ll get help with your resume, cover letter, and access to a list of previous practicum sites near you.

The program’s accreditation lets you work in most states. A total of 41 states accept the standard degree plan, and the other 9 only need minor additions.

4. Lamar University

Lamar University’s online Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling program delivers exceptional value with a laser-focused curriculum. Students can earn a Master of Education in Counseling & Development that prepares them for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credentials in Texas.

MFT program details

The MFT program offers a well-laid-out format that works great for professionals:

• Five-week course sessions where students take one class per session
• Advanced Rotation classes run through the entire semester
• A set course schedule with clear graduation timeline
• Evidence-based counseling practice preparation

Students learn cross-cultural competencies and skills they need to understand family structures, life-cycle dynamics, and healthy family functioning. The program teaches them to diagnose mental and emotional disorders and develop strategies that resolve marriage and family conflicts related to divorce, mediation, child-rearing, and family violence.

Cost and duration

Students find Lamar University among the most budget-friendly online MFT programs available:

The total cost stands out as economical – about one-third of what other U.S. MFT or counseling programs charge. Students take one class every five weeks, and they can register for Residency alongside another five-week class.

MFT licensure preparation

Students get ready for professional practice through:

• One required residency experience
• A 15-week practicum
• A 15-week internship
• Coursework that meets educational requirements for LPC and LMFT in Texas

Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA minimum to graduate. They need to retake any courses with D or F grades. It’s worth mentioning that while the program meets Texas requirements, students should check their home state’s requirements before enrolling. Texas licensure needs additional steps like passing the AMFTRB exam, submitting a Practicum Documentation Form, and completing fingerprinting.

Lamar University offers a well-laid-out, affordable path to become a marriage and family therapist, especially for future Texas practitioners.

5. Kairos University

Among affordable online MFT programs, Kairos University stands out with its monthly subscription model that replaces traditional per-credit pricing. The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy program blends faith-based learning with clinical excellence to create an exceptional educational experience.

Kairos University MFT program format

Students at Kairos University attend live online classes that encourage real-time interaction with professors and classmates. You won’t just watch pre-recorded content – you’ll actively participate in meaningful discussions. The curriculum needs:

• 65 credit hours of coursework
• 300-500 face-to-face client contact hours
• Supervision groups for case presentations and peer feedback

Students can choose between different completion options:

The program accepts new cohorts each fall with limited available spaces.

Tuition and affordability

Kairos’ program stands out with its financial structure. The university’s tuition costs 75-90% less than the national average. Here’s what you’ll pay:

• Annual tuition: $4,800
• Total program cost: $26,400

The program uses a predictable monthly subscription model. You won’t see any surprise registration fees, graduation fees, course fees, or technology fees. Your subscription rate stays the same throughout the program.

Cohort model and support

Students experience a unique cohort model where they build close relationships with fellow students and faculty members. You’ll start and finish your studies with the same group of peers in this supportive environment.

The cohort approach helps students:

• Find a safe space for personal and professional growth
• Discuss challenging concepts openly
• Get consistent community support throughout their studies

The program goes beyond academic instruction with clinical training and personal development to prepare students for professional practice. The program’s COAMFTE accreditation confirms it meets high standards for marriage and family therapy education.

6. Amberton University

Amberton University serves only working adults who want to advance their education. Their Marriage and Family Therapy program combines flexibility and affordability. Students can earn a Master of Arts degree that provides complete knowledge of marriage and family counseling and prepares them for Texas licensure.

MFT program structure

The MA in Marriage and Family Therapy program needs 60 credit hours of coursework split into:

• 3 hours of Required Graduate Studies
• 48 hours of Major Requirements (including pre-practicum and practicum courses)
• 9 hours of Counseling Electives

Students learn counseling ethics, addiction counseling, couples therapy, psychopathology treatment, and multicultural counseling. The program requires passing the American Association of Marriage & Family Therapy Regulatory Board practice exam with a minimum score of 65% before starting pre-practicum courses. This requirement helps students prepare for the actual MFT exam after graduation.

Pricing and credit cost

Amberton keeps its tuition rates affordable at $325 per credit hour for the 2025-2026 academic year. Each three-credit course costs $975. The program’s total cost is much lower than other schools, making it one of the most budget-friendly online MFT programs. Graduate students can expect these annual costs:

Students have several payment options including Title IV financial aid, private education loans, and payment deferrals. The university believes students should “pay as they go” without taking on long-term debt.

Accreditation and flexibility

The program holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC). Students who complete the program meet all academic requirements to become Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists in Texas.

Students can take both online and on-campus courses, which works well for busy professionals. The program’s structure considers working adults’ needs with sessions that fit professional schedules.

7. Mid-America Christian University

Mid-America Christian University’s Master of Science in Counseling program takes a Christ-centered approach to marriage and family therapy education. Working professionals can find the right balance between faith integration and clinical excellence through this fully online degree.

MFT program curriculum

The MS in Counseling with an emphasis in Marital, Couples, and Family Therapy will prepare you to become a licensed marriage and family therapist through its detailed curriculum. The program emphasizes:

• Interpersonal communication in counseling relationships
• Marital and family treatment techniques
• Clinical issues related to aging, death, and dying

You’ll develop the skills needed to handle relational and behavioral issues in family dynamics of all types. The curriculum combines a Christian viewpoint with evidence-based treatment approaches and research methods. This combination will give a graduate the tools to provide compassionate, ethical support to diverse client populations.

Tuition and course pacing

MACU provides a flexible structure that’s perfect for working adults looking for affordable online MFT programs:

Students can focus on one course at a time, making the program’s innovative design easier to manage with work and personal life. The program also includes practicums and internships that you can complete in your local area, just like on-campus programs.

Accreditation and online delivery

MACU’s accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools ensures your degree meets strict educational standards.

The program’s 100% online format removes commuting barriers while maintaining quality through:

• Regular interaction with professors and peers
• Collaborative learning opportunities
• Clinical practicums with both on-site supervision and university faculty support

8. University of Massachusetts Global

UMass Global’s Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy program prepares students to become skilled therapists. The program combines academic coursework with hands-on training. Students looking for affordable online MFT programs will find this program appealing because of its well-laid-out clinical preparation approach.

MFT program overview

The MA in Marriage and Family Therapy program needs 60 credit hours split into two main parts:

• A didactic section that teaches core knowledge
• A practicum section that builds clinical skills

Students need to complete 400 clinical hours at community agencies while taking six practicum courses. The program builds on systems theory and teaches therapists to assess client information. This creates an environment where clients can “thrive, grow, and persevere through life’s challenges”.

Graduates can work as licensed marriage and family therapists, couples therapists, family counselors, group therapists, and child/adolescent therapists.

Tuition and state compatibility

UMass Global keeps their MFT program pricing simple:

State licensing rules affect program availability. The MA MFT program isn’t available to residents of Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Washington DC. The university provides state-specific documents that help students understand their state’s licensure requirements.

Licensure and faculty

WASC Senior College and University Commission accredits the program. It follows the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) educational guidelines. States interpret these guidelines differently, so UMass Global created state-specific guides with licensing board websites, accreditation requirements, and practicum expectations.

Experienced clinicians teach the program and mentor students with academic and career guidance. Students also get help from a dedicated Clinical Support Team. Clinical Faculty Representatives work with each student for 14-16 months during their advancement and practicum process.

9. Regent University

Regent University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling program that combines professional counseling standards with Christian principles. The program stands out as one of the affordable online MFT programs and gives you the tools to excel in clinical practice while integrating spiritual elements.

MFT program structure

The program follows a 60-credit hour curriculum in a cohort sequence that builds competence step by step. The core components include:

• Foundation courses in counseling skills, theories, and human development
• Specialized marriage and family courses such as Marital & Couple Therapy, Concepts of Family Systems, and Models of Family Therapy
• Research methodology and ethical practice training
• Practicum and internship experiences totaling 600 hours

Online students must complete two residency experiences. Students take Residency A with Counseling Skills & Techniques, and Residency B when they begin their second year. The program requires students to pass the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) as their qualifying exit exam.

Tuition and residency

Regent University keeps its affordable MFT programs accessible despite being a private institution. Students can complete the program online except for the required residencies. These short campus visits provide vital hands-on training and help students network with faculty and peers. Online tuition is $730 per credit hour.

Students must complete three credits each of practicum and internship. They work directly with couples, families, and individuals in clinical settings. This mix of online flexibility and targeted in-person components creates an ideal balance of convenience and quality.

Christian integration

Regent’s program stands out through its thoughtful integration of faith views. The curriculum combines biblical principles with professional counseling standards naturally. Students learn to address their client’s spiritual needs while maintaining proper ethical boundaries.

The core team includes experienced clinicians and committed Christians. They help students learn how faith connects with therapeutic practice. This approach creates graduates who can effectively address both psychological and spiritual aspects of family dynamics.

10. Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University combines professional marriage and family therapy education with a Christian point of view. Students looking for value-based clinical training find this particularly appealing. The COAMFTE-accredited program strikes a perfect balance between faith elements and thorough therapeutic education.

MFT program format and delivery

The master’s program needs 60 credit hours and uses an all-encompassing approach to therapy. Students build their clinical skills while developing their Christian worldview throughout the curriculum. The program stands out with these features:

• Close interactions between faculty and students
• Students must complete 300 direct clinical hours (100 specifically with couples/families)
• Complete training in classic systemic models and modern approaches

Students work with faculty advisors who supervise their recorded therapy sessions. This practical approach creates a close-knit learning community where faith, knowledge, and professional growth come together smoothly.

Tuition and affordability

Affordable online MFT programs seekers will find IWU’s pricing competitive:

IWU’s pricing sits in the middle range among affordable MFT programs. The university provides over $25 million in institutional aid each year, with several financial options:

• Grants and loans
• Scholarships and veterans’ benefits
• Employer reimbursement options

Students pay the same flat tuition rate whatever their state of residence. This makes program costs predictable from start to finish.

Christian values and community

Faith weaves naturally through the curriculum instead of being confined to separate religion courses. IWU’s School of Integrated Health proudly serves as “a Christ-centered community committed to educating high-quality, culturally sensitive servant leaders”.

Students grow through personal mentorship from faculty that strengthens both their professional skills and spiritual journey. The curriculum teaches therapists to blend faith with therapy “in a clinically appropriate manner and with professional integrity”.

Faculty members advance knowledge through their scholarship while preparing students to serve communities with competent and caring support.

11. Colorado Christian University

Colorado Christian University offers a biblically-grounded Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that focuses on Marriage and Family Therapy through a well-laid-out online format. The program helps clinicians provide therapeutic services that benefit couples, families, and people who need help from a systemic point of view.

CCU MFT program curriculum

CCU’s MFT emphasis gives you the prevention, intervention, and healing strategies to help distressed families and couples. The program’s core mission helps create biblically supported education for clinicians who serve in our “turbulent and broken world”. Students learn about:

• Counseling theories and techniques
• Family systems approaches
• Therapeutic interventions for couples
• Clinical interpretation and case conceptualization skills

Each online course features live videoconferencing sessions with professors and classmates. Students must also complete three five-day on-campus residencies throughout their studies to gain hands-on training.

Tuition and course structure

CCU stands out among affordable online MFT programs with clear pricing:

Students can complete the program in eight to ten semesters through a structured sequence. The blended format combines live meetings with self-paced assignments. Students also pay a yearly Time to Track Software license fee of $110.00.

Faith-based learning environment

Christian ethical principles flow through every course at CCU. Students explore how Christian values apply to their weekly studies. The program balances theological beliefs about relationships with scientific knowledge and theories.

Graduates learn to combine spiritual dimensions with clinical expertise. This creates therapists who can help with both psychological needs and faith concerns. CCU provides a clear path into professional marriage and family therapy practice for students who want a faith-integrated approach to therapy.

12. Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University runs an advanced Master’s in Marital and Family Therapy program that focuses on “whole person care.” Students learn in cohorts where they support each other and share academic resources throughout their studies.

MFT program structure

Students can choose between two MS in Marital and Family Therapy options at Loma Linda—a campus-based program or an online version. The curriculum helps students tackle various mental health challenges:

• Co-occurring disorders and serious emotional issues
• Crisis care and chronic mental illness
• Child/elder abuse and complex relational problems

The online program takes 2.5 years (9 quarters) to complete full-time and needs 90 quarter units. Students who need more flexibility can opt for part-time study. The cohort-based approach creates a supportive learning community that leads to better academic outcomes.

Tuition and hybrid format

Students can access both live and self-paced courses in the online MFT program. Here’s what you need to know about costs:

Students must complete their practicum in person at approved locations near them. The program welcomes students from California and approved SARA states, but international students cannot enroll in the online format.

Accreditation and clinical training

The program holds full COAMFTE accreditation—the national standard for marriage and family therapy education. The California Board of Behavioral Sciences has also approved the program, which lets graduates pursue California licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists.

Clinical training requirements include 500 clinical hours plus 100 direct supervision hours. Students must complete at least 200 direct client contact hours with couples and families. The supervision must include 50 hours using raw data (video, audio, and live supervision), which ensures excellent preparation for professional practice.

Comparing Costs of Online MFT Programs

Picking the Right MFT Program

These 12 online MFT programs are affordable paths to becoming a licensed marriage and family therapist. Credit hour costs range from $325 to $862, which lets you pick a program that fits your budget and maintains high educational standards.

Each program brings something special to the table. You’ll find faith-based learning options and programs focused on clinical excellence. The delivery methods vary by a lot – from complete online formats to hybrid models that need short residencies.

Accreditation is a vital factor, and many programs have earned COAMFTE or CACREP recognition. The clinical requirements are a big deal as it means that students need anywhere from 300 to 600 hours of hands-on experience. Your state’s licensure requirements should match your chosen program’s offerings.

Several factors will shape your perfect program choice: learning format preferences, budget limits, state licensing needs, and specialty areas. Look at each program’s unique features – from National University’s trailblazing online format to Kairos University’s innovative subscription model – before you decide.