Online Masters Degree Programs in Family Therapy

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
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Curriculum and Skills Gained in Online Masters Degree Programs in Family Therapy

An online master’s degree programs in family therapy are structured to deliver a comprehensive blend of academic knowledge, clinical practice, and professional development. Students complete supervised practicum and internship experiences, gaining direct clinical training that is essential for licensure. Through these experiences, they develop a strong foundation in diagnostic assessment, treatment planning, crisis intervention, and collaborative therapy techniques.

Curriculum and Coursework
Students in online family therapy master’s programs engage with a range of subjects, including family systems theory, marriage and couples counseling, child and adolescent development, psychopathology, ethics in therapy, multicultural counseling, and research methods. Programs also emphasize evidence-based practices and the application of contemporary therapeutic models. Some of the courses that are common across different institutions providing this degree include

Psychopathology: Diagnosis and Treatment of Behavior Disorders
This course offers an in-depth examination of major psychological disorders throughout the lifespan, with a focus on diagnosis, assessment, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Students learn to apply DSM-5 criteria and develop culturally sensitive treatment plans while integrating systemic perspectives into individual and family therapy contexts.

Systemic Interventions for Grief, Loss, and Trauma
Students explore therapeutic strategies for addressing grief, loss, and trauma within individuals, couples, and family systems. Emphasis is placed on systemic frameworks that recognize how trauma impacts relational dynamics, and students practice designing interventions that promote resilience and healing across diverse populations.

Impact of Addiction and Addictive Behavior on Family Systems
This course examines the complex effects of substance use and addictive behaviors on family structures and relationships. Students learn to assess addiction-related dynamics within families and apply systemic models for intervention, recovery support, and relapse prevention, with attention to co-occurring disorders and multicultural factors.

Systemic Family Therapy Theory and Practice
This course offers both theoretical foundations and practical techniques for working with families. Students study approaches such as Bowenian, Structural, Strategic, and Narrative Therapy, developing skills to assess family functioning, facilitate change, and promote healthier relational patterns.

Self and Other Systems: Theory and Applications
This course emphasizes the development of self-awareness and relational competence within therapeutic practice. Students critically examine their cultural backgrounds, values, and biases and learn to apply systemic theories to interactions with clients, supervisors, and larger community systems, fostering ethical and reflective practice.

Some additional courses that candidates might take during an online master’s degree program in family therapy include

• Introduction to Marriage and Family Therapy;
• Theories of Individual and Family Development;
• Couples and Sex Therapy;
• Multicultural Counseling in Family Therapy;
• Legal and Ethical Issues in Family Therapy;
• Advanced Clinical Assessment and Diagnosis;
• Research Methods and Program Evaluation;
• Child and Adolescent Therapy;
• Crisis and Trauma Counseling;
• Human Sexuality and Gender Issues;
• Group Therapy in Family Systems;
• Advanced Techniques in Family Therapy;
• Integrative Approaches to Behavioral Health;
• Neurobiology and Family Functioning;
• Professional Identity and Leadership in Family Therapy

Upon graduating, students can expect to gain the following skills and learning outcomes:

• Advanced Clinical Assessment
  Ability to assess and diagnose psychological disorders using evidence-based tools and diagnostic criteria;
• Effective Communication
  Ability to build rapport, foster trust, and facilitate meaningful dialogue within family systems;
• Therapeutic Intervention
  Ability to design and implement systemic interventions;
• Cultural Competency
  Ability to understand the role culture plays in therapy;
• Ethical and Legal Standards
  Ability to demonstrate knowledge of the ethical guidelines and legal requirements;
• Crisis Management
  Ability to handle therapeutic crises effectively;
• Therapist Self-Reflection
  Ability to demonstrate enhanced self-awareness and reflect on their own biases, values, and cultural influences.

Types of Online Masters Degree Programs in Family Therapy

The master’s degree programs in family therapy provide a flexible and comprehensive education, allowing students to pursue careers as licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs). These programs vary in focus, from psychological aspects of therapy to clinical practice, research, and specialized areas such as trauma or addiction. Below is an overview of some of the most common types of online master’s programs, each offering unique features and pathways for aspiring family therapists.

Concentrations and Related Programs

Online Master’s Degree Programs in Family Therapy often offer various specializations to help students adapt their education to their career goals and personal interests. These specializations allow them to gain expertise in specific areas of family therapy, enhancing their ability to work with diverse populations and address a wide range of issues. Graduates are well-equipped to address the diverse needs of various client populations. Some common specializations within these programs include:

Online Masters Degree Programs in Family Therapy Length

The length of online master’s degree programs in family therapy can vary based on several factors, including the student’s enrollment status and the specific program’s structure. For those enrolled full-time, the program typically takes 2 to 3 years to complete. It includes coursework, supervised clinical hours, and the completion of a capstone project or thesis. Part-timers, who often balance work or other commitments, may take 3 to 4 years to complete the program. Some institutions offer accelerated programs designed for those who wish to complete their degree in a shorter timeframe, typically taking 1.5 to 2 years to complete. Additionally, cohort-based programs, where graduates progress through the coursework together in a structured sequence, typically last 2 to 3 years for full-time students and may extend to 3 years for part-time students. Other factors, such as the number of clinical hours required, internships, practicums, and the time needed for a thesis or capstone project, can also influence the overall duration of the program.

Accelerated Online Masters Degree Programs in Family Therapy

Accelerated Online Master’s Degree Programs in Family Therapy offer an exciting opportunity for students eager to fast-track their careers. In as little as 1.5 to 2 years, they can earn their degree, but it’s worth noting that only a select few schools offer this intensive format. These programs are designed for those ready to dive deep, with heavier coursework, frequent classes, and shorter breaks to pack everything into a shorter time frame. While this accelerated pace can be challenging, it is an excellent fit for those who are focused, motivated, and looking to jump-start their career in family therapy. Some universities that provide accelerated master’s degree programs in family therapy include:

• Liberty University ^[1]
• Northwestern University ^[2]

Accreditation for online master’s degree programs in family therapy is essential, as it ensures that the program meets high academic and professional standards. The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs^[5] , along with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation^[6], provides a comprehensive list of accredited institutions and programs .

Programmatic accreditation is granted by organizations such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)^[7] or the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) ^[8]. Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Read more about accreditation in the Accreditation Guide.

For students pursuing a master’s in family therapy, expanding their knowledge and skills beyond the core curriculum can be incredibly beneficial. Several platforms offer free courses that can complement their studies. These resources provide valuable opportunities to learn new therapeutic techniques, explore different psychological theories, and gain insights into family dynamics, all without the added cost of traditional tuition. Some such free courses for family therapy masters include:

Graduates with a master’s degree in family therapy have a wide range of career opportunities in mental health services, working with individuals, couples, and families to address emotional, relational, and behavioral challenges. They may find employment in private practices, hospitals, community health centers, rehabilitation facilities, and educational settings. Some careers that students with an online master’s degree programs in family therapy can take up include

• Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
• Mental Health Counselor
• School Counselor
• Rehabilitation Counselor
• Clinical Director
• Behavioral Health Specialist
• Grief Counselor
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Child and Adolescent Therapist
• Trauma Therapist
• Couples Therapist
• Crisis Intervention Specialist
• Case Manager
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Family Services Advocate

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for marriage and family therapists is projected to grow significantly faster than average, with employment expected to increase by approximately 15% through 2032. In terms of salary, marriage and family therapists earn a median annual wage of roughly $56,570^[15], although earnings can vary based on location, level of experience, specialization, and work setting .

Graduates of online family therapy programs must meet specific certification and licensing requirements to practice professionally. The most common credential is becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), which requires completing a master’s degree from an accredited program, acquiring supervised clinical experience (typically around 2,000 to 4,000 hours), and passing a state-recognized licensing exam such as the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) Examination ^[20].

Some graduates pursue specialized certifications to expand their expertise, such as certification in trauma counseling, addiction counseling, or child and adolescent therapy. Some of these certifications include:

• AAMFT Clinical Fellow ^[21]
  The AAMFT Clinical Fellow designation is awarded by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) to licensed marriage and family therapists who have demonstrated advanced clinical experience, education, and adherence to high ethical standards. Clinical Fellows are recognized for their professional competence in systemic and relational therapies; holding this title enhances their credibility and opportunities for leadership roles in the field.
• Sex Therapist Certification ^[22]
  A Sex Therapist Certification, often awarded through organizations like the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT), prepares therapists to address sexual issues in individual, couple, and family therapy contexts. It is valuable for therapists who want to broaden their expertise and support clients with intimacy, relationship, and sexual wellness challenges.v
• Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP) ^[23]
  The Certified Group Psychotherapist (CGP) credential, granted by the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA), recognizes professionals who have specialized skills and experience in conducting group therapy. To earn this certification, therapists must complete a combination of coursework, clinical experience, and supervision and demonstrate a strong understanding of group dynamics and therapeutic techniques.

Licensing requirements vary by state, so graduates need to check the specific guidelines of the state where they intend to practice. Continuing education is often required to maintain licensure, ensuring therapists stay updated on the latest research and ethical practices in the field.

For students pursuing a career in marriage and family therapy, tapping into the right resources can significantly enhance learning and professional development. Joining organizations offers access to cutting-edge research, professional training, clinical guidelines, and networking opportunities that go beyond what is taught in the classroom. Exploring journals such as the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy and Family Process^[24] helps students stay updated on new theories, practices, and real-world case studies . Some organizations that benefit family therapy professionals include

• American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy ^[25]
  The AAMFT is one of the leading organizations in the field, providing students with access to valuable resources, including research journals, clinical practice guidelines, scholarships, and reduced membership fees. They can also attend conferences, workshops, and webinars that help them develop critical therapy skills and connect with experienced professionals for mentorship and networking opportunities.
• American Family Therapy Academy ^[26] 
  AFTA is committed to advancing systemic thinking and social justice in family therapy. For students, it offers an intellectual community, access to cutting-edge research, and opportunities to engage in thought leadership around social issues and family well-being. Its events and collaborative projects are ideal for those interested in innovative, socially responsive therapy practices.
• International Family Therapy Association ^[27]    
  IFTA connects students to a global network of family therapy professionals. It offers international conferences, newsletters, and educational resources that broaden the understanding of family therapy across cultures. Being part of IFTA helps individuals develop a global perspective, which is increasingly essential in today’s diverse therapeutic settings.
• International Association of Marriage and Family Counselors (IAMFC) ^[28]
  IAMFC focuses on promoting excellence in the practice and training of marriage and family counseling. Students benefit from specialized publications, professional development webinars, and a supportive network that bridges academic study with real-world clinical applications. IAMFC also advocates for high standards in counselor education and provides tools to help candidates transition smoothly into professional roles.
• Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education ^[29]   
  COAMFTE plays a crucial role in ensuring that MFT programs meet the highest academic and clinical training standards. For students, choosing a COAMFTE-accredited program ensures they are receiving a quality education that meets licensure requirements in most states. Accreditation also improves a graduate’s credibility and competitiveness in the job market.