Affordable MFT programs
Marriage and family therapists help clients repair relationships and live happier lives. Explore affordable online MFT programs that can prepare you to pursue this fulfilling career.
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Why earn an affordable online master's in marriage and family therapy?
Help clients improve their relationships
Marriage and family therapists help clients identify the underlying problems that cause conflicts within their relationships. They then work with clients to develop custom-tailored treatment plans.
Graduate with less debt
Affordable online MFT programs can help you save money on your education through reduced tuition, fewer fees, and/or financial aid packages.
Join a fast-growing field
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for marriage and family therapists to grow by 13% from 2024-2034, which is 10% higher than the average projected growth for all U.S. jobs in this period.
A 2024 Bowling Green State University report shows that, although the U.S. divorce rate has dropped since 1980, the number of people experiencing divorce is higher than ever. Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) can help this growing number of couples in crisis preserve their unions.
Dive into what it takes to become a marriage and family therapist and explore affordable online MFT programs.
Browse affordable online MFT programs
What to expect in an online MFT program
Affordable online MFT programs combine online instruction and in-person experiences. The latter may count toward your state's licensure experience requirement. Programs with asynchronous delivery let you schedule coursework around work, family, and other responsibilities.
Check program websites and contact admissions advisors to learn more about affordable online MFT programs' courses, admission requirements, costs, and financial aid.
What can you do with an online MFT?
A master's in marriage and family therapy can help you meet the requirements to . MFTs counsel individuals and families to help improve their relationships.
They each need a master's degree from a regionally accredited school and a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). All states require them to earn a license to practice.
Licensure requirements vary by state, but most programs require you to:
- Earn a master's degree from a regionally and COAMFTE-accredited program.
- Complete a set number of hours in a supervised clinical experience after earning your degree.
- Pass a state-approved exam, like the test administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards.
In some states, you must also pass a jurisprudence exam. To maintain your license, you must complete continuing education requirements each licensure renewal period.
MFTs can work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health centers, and substance use treatment centers. Some MFTs provide telehealth services and meet with clients by phone or video.
How much can you make with an MFT?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that marriage and family therapists earned a median annual salary of $63,780 as of May 2024, almost $15,000 more than the average across all occupations. The BLS projects a strong 13% growth rate for marriage and family therapists from 2024-2034.
The rising popularity of integrated care, where patients get treatment for multiple issues simultaneously from different specialists, will likely contribute to increased demand for MFTs.
How to choose an affordable online MFT program
Consider many factors when comparing affordable online MFT programs, such as your overall COA.
Verify accreditation status
Check whether programs hold proper accreditation and qualify you for licensure. Compare each school's graduation requirements with your state's licensure requirements. You'll likely need to gain extra supervised experience after graduation to sit for your state's licensure exam.
Identify financial aid options
Even if every school on your shortlist charges lower-than-average tuition and fees, you can reduce your COA further by focusing on programs with generous institutional aid.
Compare graduate outcomes
Research common careers for graduates, student testimonials, and any data published by the university. You can also reach out to former degree-seekers with questions and concerns.
Research programs' electives before applying
The right electives can help you tailor your education to your career goals. Taking electives in topics that align with your passions allows you to network with like-minded students and instructors who may provide references during your job hunt.