Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy
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Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy
Degree:
Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy
Application:
$0 application fee. No essays/exams.
As the first MFT degree program with distance education to receive accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE), National University (formerly Northcentral University) provides rigorous training to help you develop into a competent, ethical, culturally sensitive and licensable marriage and family therapist.
Accreditation from the International Accreditation Commission for Systemic Therapy Education (IACSTE) ensures that this program meets the quality standards for programs that provide systemic therapy education and training. NU’s MFT degree courses are primarily online, however, practicum, internships, and clinical supervision activities include traditional engagement in the communities our students reside.
Bringing Better Communication Close to Home
Marriage and Family Therapy Resources
The Program Handbook is designed to serve as a guide that provides you with applicable information that can help you succeed in your goal of becoming a marriage and family therapist. You will find policies and forms related to program admission, confidentiality, student progress and retention, graduation, program learning outcomes, the organizational structure of the program, specific program requirements, discussion on pursuing licensure, and other relevant program documents. It is a supplement to, but not a substitute for, the National University Catalog to access a web-based version of the handbook.
Degree Requirements
To receive a Masters in Marriage & Family Therapy, students must complete at least 45 quarter units (the equivalent of 10 1-month courses) of graduate work.
National University awards credit in quarter units, with each academic year divided into four 12-week quarters.
Each quarter is made up of three 4-week classes, with one class per month. Under the current policy, 4.5 units of credit are awarded for courses.
Program at a Glance
- Total Credit Hours: At least 45 Credit Hours*
- Courses: 15-22*
- Recommended Completion Time: 33 Months
*Students seeking licensure may be required by their state to complete up to 60 credit hours, which could equate for up to 22 courses.
Online Masters in Marriage & Family Therapy Course Listings
Foundation Courses
3 Courses
Foundations for Graduate Study in Marriage and Family Therapy
3.0 Credits
Students will complete the course with a better understanding of systems theory concepts and the role of systemic dynamics within diverse populations. This course is also an orientation to Northcentral University and to the essential skills needed to pursue a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Graduate-level skills, such as goal building, time management, academic integrity, effective use of the Northcentral Library, the use of APA form and style in professional communication, and critical thinking skills are introduced.
Treatment Planning and Traditional Family Therapy
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course provides students with a strong foundation in classic and intergenerational models in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. To deepen this understanding of these models, the course also focuses on their application through theory-based treatment planning. The course is designed to allow students to gain a deeper awareness of the important relationship between theory and practice through the study and application of theory to client situations. The two primary areas of focus in this course are: 1) understanding the Classic Models of the field and; 2) the development of theoretically consistent treatment plans that include attention to the diversity of influences on family life using therapeutic models that purposefully address such influences.
Recovery-Oriented Care and Postmodern Family Therapy
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course focuses on post-modern models and treatment trends in marriage and family therapy including the philosophy of social constructionism and the narrative, solution focused, and collaborative models, and the recovery model. Course content will enable students to conceptualize and distinguish recent epistemological issues and address contemporary conceptual directions in the field of marriage and family therapy. Students will complete short essays, case studies, and assorted assignments to address a wide variety of presenting clinical problems and issues such as gender and racial diversity and discrimination, feminism, substance abuse, and recovery from mental illness.
Fundamental Courses
9 Courses
Cultural Diversity, Gender, and Family Development
3.0 Credits
This course addresses issues related to diversity, equity, power, privilege, and oppression as they relate to culture and social location, including but not limited to ethnicity, gender, nationality, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and spirituality. Each of these characteristics is examined with respect to the relevance they have to the profession and practice of marriage and family therapy. You will examine systemic therapeutic approaches, as well as self of the therapist contexts that influence their ability to address diverse issues presented by a variety of clients. In addition students will appraise ethical dilemmas in the framework of cultural competency.
Systemic Evaluation and Case Management
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course provides an opportunity to review various assessments and evaluations tools utilized by marriage and family therapists for clinical and research purposes. You will receive an overview of psychological test construction, administration, and interpretation in both traditional and telehealth settings. In addition to systemic evaluation measures for individuals, couples, and families, you will learn how to conduct a needs assessment and standard case management methods, including identifying and aligning clients with appropriate community resources. You are also invited to consider diversity as one of the fundamental concepts of a successful and productive evaluation.
Legal, Ethical and Professional Development in Marriage and Family Therapy
3.0 Credits
This course focuses on legal and ethical issues related to the profession of marriage and family therapy and the practice of individual, couple, and family therapy. The course includes content regarding professional identity, including professional socialization, scope of practice, professional organizations, licensure, and certification.
Psychopathology, Diagnosis, and Systemic Treatment
3.0 Credits
Using a relational/systemic perspective, this course will address the traditional psychodiagnostic categories as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The focus of the course content is on the assessment and treatment of major mental health issues outlining the comparison between the psychiatric diagnostic classification system and relational systems-based approaches.
Couple and Sex Therapy
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course provides students with an opportunity to develop their personal model of therapy for working with couples with a variety of issues, such as differing values and sexual dysfunction. Through the study of several models of couples therapy and sex therapy, students will focus on assessment of couples’ dynamics, goal setting, and potential interventions. Special consideration will be given to diversity and ethical issues throughout the course.
Elective/Specialization Course 1
Elective/Specialization Course 2
Research Methods and Evidence Based Practice
3.0 Credits
This course provides students with an understanding of clinical research methods and design. In addition, it addresses the relevance of research to students’ clinical work. Students will investigate existing research and research methods used in marriage and family therapy, both quantitative and qualitative. Ethical issues and considerations in research will also be addressed, as well as learning to critically evaluate existing research. A primary aim of the course is to help students become evidence-based practitioners.
Human Development and Family Dynamics Across the Lifespan
3.0 Credits
This course will include content on individual and family development across the lifespan. The human development course has specific emphasis given to developmentally appropriate and atypical transitions related to common concerns in marriage and family therapy. Students will appraise the issues related to human development and lifespan using a systems-based perspective.
Clinical Experience Courses
5 Courses
MFT Practicum I
3.0 Credits
This course provides you with an opportunity to start acquiring direct client contact and supervision hours towards graduation requirements. The emphasis of this course is on building foundational clinical skills and learning the skills needed to operate effectively and ethically when providing telehealth. Additionally, there will be a focus on furthering your systemic thought and application to clinical cases. You will be reintroduced to general systems theory as a foundation for exploring your personal theory of therapy. There is also a focus on cultural humility with diverse populations and ethical decision making, as well as an exploration of the self of the therapist and personal growth. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly 2-hour group supervision sessions with other NU students.
MFT Practicum II
3.0 Credits
In this course you will continue acquiring direct client contact and supervision hours towards graduation requirements. The emphasis of this course is on solidifying your ability to both apply and explain systems theory in relation to your clinical cases. You will be asked to apply systems theory concepts and assumptions to your cases and conceptualize from multiple MFT models. Cultural humility with diverse populations, ethical decision making, and self of the therapist exploration will also be foci. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly two-hour group supervision sessions with other NU students. (Student Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4)
MFT Internship I
3.0 Credits
In this course you will continue acquiring direct client contact and supervision hours towards graduation requirements. The emphasis of this course is on extending the systemic foundations gained in the Practicum courses to explore the MFT model that fits your own personal theory of therapy and explore research available about your model of choice. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly two-hour group supervision sessions with other MFT students.
MFT Internship II
3.0 Credits
In this course you will continue acquiring direct client contact and supervision hours towards graduation requirements. The emphasis of this course is on building off of the systemic understanding and application gained in the prior courses to explore the MFT model that fits your own personal theory of therapy. You will further work on your Capstone presentation by exploring ethical and legal considerations that may come up with your model and that you have managed during your clinical experience. In addition, self of the therapist work will be explored, and your Capstone draft will be presented. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly two-hour group supervision sessions with other students.
MFT Internship and Capstone
3.0 Credits
In this final clinical course, you will need to successfully meet the graduation hour requirements and pass your Capstone presentation. The emphasis of this course is on integrating feedback from the prior courses so that you can identify and explain the MFT model of therapy that best fits your personal theory of therapy. The final Capstone presentation will require you to identify how your chosen model is systemic, discuss research associated with your chosen model, and demonstrate your competency in the model via a case presentation. Additionally, you will discuss your cultural humility with diverse populations, ethical considerations you have encountered, and reflections on your self of the therapist exploration and growth. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly two-hour group supervision sessions with other students.
Additional clinical training extension courses as needed.
California Licensure Track, MAMFT
22 Courses
California Licensure Track, MAMFT
3.0 Credits
Students will complete the course with a better understanding of systems theory concepts and the role of systemic dynamics within diverse populations. This course is also an orientation to the University and to the essential skills needed to pursue a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Graduate-level skills, such as goal building, time management, academic integrity, effective use of the University Library, the use of APA form and style in professional communication, and critical thinking skills are introduced.
Treatment Planning and Traditional Family Therapy
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course provides students with a strong foundation in classic and intergenerational models in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. To deepen this understanding of these models, the course also focuses on their application through theory-based treatment planning. The course is designed to allow students to gain a deeper awareness of the important relationship between theory and practice through the study and application of theory to client situations. The two primary areas of focus in this course are: 1) understanding the Classic Models of the field and; 2) the development of theoretically consistent treatment plans that include attention to the diversity of influences on family life using therapeutic models that purposefully address such influences.
Recovery-Oriented Care and Postmodern Family Therapy
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course focuses on post-modern models and treatment trends in marriage and family therapy including the philosophy of social constructionism and the narrative, solution focused, and collaborative models, and the recovery model. Course content will enable students to conceptualize and distinguish recent epistemological issues and address contemporary conceptual directions in the field of marriage and family therapy. Students will complete short essays, case studies, and assorted assignments to address a wide variety of presenting clinical problems and issues such as gender and racial diversity and discrimination, feminism, substance abuse, and recovery from mental illness.
Cultural Diversity, Gender, and Family Development
3.0 Credits
This course addresses issues related to diversity, equity, power, privilege, and oppression as they relate to culture and social location, including but not limited to ethnicity, gender, nationality, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and spirituality. Each of these characteristics is examined with respect to the relevance they have to the profession and practice of marriage and family therapy. You will examine systemic therapeutic approaches, as well as self of the therapist contexts that influence their ability to address diverse issues presented by a variety of clients. In addition students will appraise ethical dilemmas in the framework of cultural competency.
Systemic Evaluation and Case Management
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course provides an opportunity to review various assessments and evaluations tools utilized by marriage and family therapists for clinical and research purposes. You will receive an overview of psychological test construction, administration, and interpretation in both traditional and telehealth settings. In addition to systemic evaluation measures for individuals, couples, and families, you will learn how to conduct a needs assessment and standard case management methods, including identifying and aligning clients with appropriate community resources. You are also invited to consider diversity as one of the fundamental concepts of a successful and productive evaluation.
California Law and Professional Ethics
3.0 Credits
This course is designed specifically for students living in or seeking licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in the state of California. The course focuses on legal and ethical issues related to the profession of marriage and family therapy and the practice of individual, couple, and family therapy in the state of California. The course includes content regarding contemporary professional ethics and laws regarding the scope of practice, therapeutic and clinical considerations involving legal and ethical practice of MFTs, family law, current legal trends in the mental health profession, psychotherapist-patient privilege, confidentiality, the patient dangerous to self of others, the treatment of minors with and without parental consent, professional identity including the relationship between the sense of self and human values and one’ professional behavior and ethics, legal and ethical standards for different types of work settings, and the licensure laws and process.
Psychopathology, Diagnosis, and Systemic Treatment
3.0 Credits
Using a relational/systemic perspective, this course will address the traditional psychodiagnostic categories as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The focus of the course content is on the assessment and treatment of major mental health issues outlining the comparison between the psychiatric diagnostic classification system and relational systems-based approaches.
Couple and Sex Therapy
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course provides students with an opportunity to develop their personal model of therapy for working with couples with a variety of issues, such as differing values and sexual dysfunction. Through the study of several models of couples therapy and sex therapy, students will focus on assessment of couples’ dynamics, goal setting, and potential interventions. Special consideration will be given to diversity and ethical issues throughout the course.
Family Therapy with Children
3.0 Credits
This course provides an overview of systems-based theories and models that could be utilized by MFTs while working with children and their families. Course material will also address specific topics necessary to consider while providing therapeutic services, such as ethical dilemmas related to minors, opportunities of collaboration with extra-therapeutic systems, and possibilities of developing parenting strategies sensitive to the diverse population served by MFTs. Facilitating child involvement in the therapeutic process for families will be addressed as well.
Families in Crisis
3.0 Credits
This course will examine contemporary crisis-related issues in marriage and family therapy to include the intersections of gender, violence, trauma, substance abuse and other compulsive behaviors, eating disorders, suicide, chronic illness, infidelity and infertility. The focus will be on the effects of trauma and stress on family life and relationships and the assessment and treatment of individuals, couples, and families from a relational/systemic perspective with respect to these issues. Collaborative care, referral process, and community networking will be addressed considering the unique needs of the trauma population. Vicarious trauma and resilience will also be examined, with an emphasis on self-care for MFTs working with families in crisis. Ethical issues pertaining to the trauma work will be addressed.
Research Methods and Evidence Based Practice
3.0 Credits
This course provides students with an understanding of clinical research methods and design. In addition, it addresses the relevance of research to students’ clinical work. Students will investigate existing research and research methods used in marriage and family therapy, both quantitative and qualitative. Ethical issues and considerations in research will also be addressed, as well as learning to critically evaluate existing research. A primary aim of the course is to help students become evidence-based practitioners.
Human Development and Family Dynamics Across the Lifespan
3.0 Credits
This course will include content on individual and family development across the lifespan. The human development course has specific emphasis given to developmentally appropriate and atypical transitions related to common concerns in marriage and family therapy. Students will appraise the issues related to human development and lifespan using a systems-based perspective.
Sex Therapy in MFT
3.0 Credits
This course provides an overview of systems-based theories and models that can be utilized by MFTs in the assessment and treatment of sexual disorders and dysfunction. The course materials will address physiological and psychological aspects of human sexuality, along with relevant issues such as ethical dilemmas in sex therapy and implications of diversity for sex.
Systemic Interventions in Addictions
3.0 Credits
This course provides an overview of a variety of systemic approaches which can be used to treat addiction. Students will be expected to consider self-of-the-therapist issues and diversity concerns as it relates to exposure to and treatment of addiction. A variety of addictive substances will also be introduced to help students understand the issues related to long-term and short-term effects of various classes of substances and the withdrawal symptoms which may be experienced by clients. Ethical issues, which present themselves when working as an MFT within the field of addictions, will also be explored.
Fundamentals of Psychopharmacology
3.0 Credits
This Master’s level course is designed to teach the basics of clinical psychopharmacology for marriage and family therapists. Students will consider how psychotropic medications affect specific populations such as children and older clients. Students will draw from DSM-5 diagnostic criteria as it applies to treatment decision-making and medications. Neuroscience research on psychopharmacology treatment will be reviewed and ethical implications will be discussed.
MFT Practicum I
3.0 Credits
This course provides you with an opportunity to start acquiring direct client contact and supervision hours towards graduation requirements. The emphasis of this course is on building foundational clinical skills and learning the skills needed to operate effectively and ethically when providing telehealth. Additionally, there will be a focus on furthering your systemic thought and application to clinical cases. You will be reintroduced to general systems theory as a foundation for exploring your personal theory of therapy. There is also a focus on cultural humility with diverse populations and ethical decision making, as well as an exploration of the self of the therapist and personal growth. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly 2-hour group supervision sessions with other University students.
Assessing and Treating Family Violence
3.0 Credits
This course provides an overview of systems-based theories and models that can be utilized by MFTs working in the context of family violence. Students will explore theories and research related to family violence and look into various causes and consequences as well. The course materials will also address family violence in diverse contexts, as well as consideration of ethical dilemmas associated with situations pertaining to family violence and abuse.
MFT Practicum II
3.0 Credits
In this course you will continue acquiring direct client contact and supervision hours towards graduation requirements. The emphasis of this course is on solidifying your ability to both apply and explain systems theory in relation to your clinical cases. You will be asked to apply systems theory concepts and assumptions to your cases and conceptualize from multiple MFT models. Cultural humility with diverse populations, ethical decision making, and self of the therapist exploration will also be foci. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly two-hour group supervision sessions with other University students. (Student Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4)
MFT Internship I *
3.0 Credits
In this course you will continue acquiring direct client contact and supervision hours towards graduation requirements. The emphasis of this course is on extending the systemic foundations gained in the Practicum courses to explore the MFT model that fits your own personal theory of therapy and explore research available about your model of choice. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly two-hour group supervision sessions with other MFT students.
Gerontology and Systemic Intervention Master’s
3.0 Credits
This course deals with the biological, social, cognitive, and psychological aspects of aging. Ancillary aspects of aging are also explored, including issues related to long-term care, end of life issues, the cultural context of human development, and the impact of socioeconomic status (especially poverty) on older adults. A significant focus of the course is the application of systemic treatment/theory to the older adult population and multigenerational families. Students will explore ethical dilemmas that might arise while working in gerontological settings and examine current research literature addressing systemic work with older adults, their families, and larger social systems.
MFT Internship II *
3.0 Credits
In this course you will continue acquiring direct client contact and supervision hours towards graduation requirements. The emphasis of this course is on building off of the systemic understanding and application gained in the prior courses to explore the MFT model that fits your own personal theory of therapy. You will further work on your Capstone presentation by exploring ethical and legal considerations that may come up with your model and that you have managed during your clinical experience. In addition, self of the therapist work will be explored, and your Capstone draft will be presented. A majority of the work in this course will occur in the weekly two-hour group supervision sessions with other students.
MFT Internship and Capstone *
3.0 Credits
Additional Practicum Extension Courses as needed
Note: * Designates Practicum I as 2 credits, MFT Practicum II as 2 credits, MFT Internship I as 2 credits, MFT Internship II as 2 credits, and MFT Internship and Capstone as 1 credit
Note: * Designates Practicum I as 2 credits, MFT Practicum II as 2 credits, MFT Internship I as 2 credits, MFT Internship II as 2 credits, and MFT Internship and Capstone as 1 credit
Specializations
Child and Adolescent Family Therapy, MA-MFT
When divorce and other strife enters the lives of children and teens, it often takes a sensitive professional to help them and their families weather these storms. The Child and Adolescent Family Therapy specialization is designed to prepare you to work in therapeutic settings with children and adolescents using a family therapy, systems approach. In this specialization you will be required to complete two focused content courses, a research course focusing on issues related to working with children, adolescents and families, as well as complete at least 50 hours of clinical experience in an approved setting under the guidance of a qualified local supervisor.
Couple Therapy, MA-MFT
With the changing definition of marriage, along with social expectations, marriage and long-term relationships often face challenges that call for the help of a trained third party. NU’s Couple Therapy specialization is designed to prepare you to work with couples in therapeutic settings, primarily using a family therapy, systems perspective. Students in this specialization are required to complete two content courses in this area, a research course focused on issues related to working with couples, and at least 50 hours of clinical experience in an approved setting with a qualified local clinical supervisor.
General Family Therapy, MA-MFT
According to the 2012 Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment in the Marriage and Family Therapy field is expected to grow 41% in the next decade. The Master’s in General Family Therapy prepares you to meet this growing demand. There is no physical residency requirement, which means you are able to complete all of your coursework online and secure a clinical placement site in your local community to complete the face-to-face clinical training component of the program. All courses are taught by professors who possess significant experience teaching in the field of MFT as well as working as MFTs.
We pursue programmatic accreditation whenever appropriate. The Master’s and PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy are COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited.
LGBTQ Couple and Family Therapy, MA-MFT
Same-sex couples face many of the same relational issues as heterosexual couples, but the attendant differences can create unique challenges as well. The LGBTQ Couple and Family Therapy specialization is designed to prepare you to work with clients in the LGBTQ community and to specialize in working with couples and families using a family therapy, systems-oriented approach. In this specialization, you will be required to complete two content courses focused in this area, a research course focused on issues related to working with LGBTQ couples and families, and at least 50 hours of clinical experience in an approved setting with a qualified local clinical supervisor.
Medical Family Therapy, MA-MFT
Medical challenges can often overwhelm a family emotionally. But the guidance of a trained professional can make a difference. The Medical Family Therapy specialization is designed to prepare you to work with individuals, couples and family who are facing chronic and acute medical difficulties. Medical Family Therapy incorporates a family therapy, systems perspective in helping clients to understand and manage their medical difficulties. In this specialization you will be required to complete two focused content courses, a research course focused on issues related to medical family therapy, and at least 50 hours of clinical experience in an approved medical setting with a qualified local clinical supervisor.
Military Family Therapy, MA-MFT
Members of the military and their families are typically strong, but that strength sometimes needs the reinforcement that only a trained counselor can provide. Military families also face unique challenges, such as long periods of separation during deployments. The Military Family Therapy specialization prepares you to work primarily with individuals, couples, and families that are affiliated with the military, using a family therapy, systems perspective. In this specialization you will be required to complete two focused content courses, a research course focusing on issues related to working with military families, and at least 50 hours of clinical experience in an approved military setting with a qualified local clinical supervisor.
Systemic Sex Therapy, MA-MFT
This specialization is designed for students that are interested in working with individuals and couples that are facing sexual difficulties. Courses in this specialization cover the historical and theoretical foundations of systemic sex therapy, including how religion, culture and society have informed sexual behaviors. Students will learn about sexual disorders, models of therapy and assessment, creating a non-judgmental therapeutic alliance with clients and ethical issues specific to this field of practice. Additionally, students will learn how to apply this knowledge within the practice of marriage and family therapy.
Obtaining a specialization at the master’s level allows students to focus their education and become subject matter experts in their particular area of study.
Systemic Treatment of Addictions, MA-MFT
This specialization is designed for students that are interested in working with individuals and families facing addiction issues and co-occurring disorders. Courses in this specialization examine the historical and theoretical foundations of addictive disorders, the philosophies of co-occurring disorders and various systematic theories and evidence-based models for treatment. Students will also learn methods for assessing substance-related and addictive disorders in the context of family therapy and ethical issues related to working in the field of addictions as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
Obtaining a specialization at the master’s level allows students to focus their education and become subject matter experts in their particular area of study.
Trauma Informed Systemic Therapy, MA-MFT
This specialization is designed for students that are interested in helping individuals and families cope with the effects of traumatic events. Courses in this specialization are aligned with the International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP) and cover a range of topics such as the nature and impact of psychological trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder and the human capacity for healing. Students will also learn about the historical and theoretical foundations of trauma, crisis-related issues in marriage and family therapy and system-based theories and models in the context of family violence.
Obtaining a specialization at the master’s level allows students to focus their education and become subject matter experts in their particular area of study.
Career Outlook
A Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis degree opens doors in a variety of industries, including health care, social assistance, and educational services. Employers in this field are looking for skills in teaching, research, communications, leadership, writing, advocacy, planning, and management.
- Top Jobs in this field
- Median Salary (USA)
- JOB Openings (USA)
- Marriage and Family Therapists
- $60,104 avg. salary (USA)
- 8,293 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Mental Health
- Social Work
- Treatment Planning
- Psychology
- Family Therapy
- Behavioral Health
- Psychotherapy
Top companies hiring for this role
- Unclassified
- Headway
- LifeStance Health
- Thriveworks
- Lyra Health
- Universal Health Services
- Guideline Healthcare
MAMFT Program Learning Outcomes
Learn the key skills to help you excel in your field of study.
- Employ competence in working with diverse populations in clinical settings.
- Students/graduates** will evaluate family systems-oriented clinical skills across a variety of contexts.
- Examine family systems theory oriented models of therapy
- Formulate a decision-making process for ethical dilemmas congruent with the AAMFT Code of Ethics.
- Integrate relevant research to inform the practice of marriage and family therapy.
COAMFTE Graduate Achievement Data For MAMFT
Graduate Achievement Data Disclosure
Graduate Achievement Data for National University
Accredited: 2012
Advertised Program Length*: 4.5 years
| Cohort Year Students Entered Program | # Of Students In Program FT | Graduation Rate in Advertised Time (%)* FT | Job Placement Rate (%)** FT | Licensure Rate (%)*** FT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 – 2016 | 380 | 41.05% | 98.44% | 58.54% |
| 2016 – 2017 | 332 | 34.64% | 96.26% | 56.52% |
| 2017 – 2018 | 312 | 37.50% | 95.28% | 53.50% |
| 2018 – 2019 | 278 | 41.01% | 97.87% | 53.79% |
| 2019 – 2020 | 351 | 56.70% | 96.00% | 55.02% |
| 2020 – 2021 | 459 | IP | IP | IP |
| 2021 – 2022 | 596 | IP | IP | IP |
| 2022 – 2023 | 495 | IP | IP | IP |
| 2023 – 2024 | 322 | IP | IP | IP |
FT=Full‐time
PT=Part‐time
IP=In Process: Students from the cohort listed have yet to graduate from the cohort year listed.
Programs are only required to provide data on the past 8 years/cohort or since the program was initially accredited, whichever is shorter.
* Graduation Rate is the program’s Advertised Length of Completion which is how long the program is designed to complete as written.
** Job Placement Rate is the percentage of graduates from the cohort year that are employed utilizing skills learned in the COAMFTE accredited program.
*** Licensure rate is the percentage of graduates from the cohort year that have achieved ANY level of MFT licensure.
For Master’s programs only, COAMFTE has established a benchmark of 70% licensure rate for each cohort.
Admissions
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To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
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National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.
Accreditations
The Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) is the accrediting body for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). National University’s Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy and Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy Programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
National University’s Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy and Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy Programs are also accredited by the International Accreditation Commission for Systemic Therapy Education (IACSTE). Created as a semi-autonomous body under the auspices of the International Family Therapy Association (IFTA), IACSTE focuses on the development and implementation of quality standards for programs around the world that provide systemic therapy education and training.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Why Choose Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.
Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.
“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”
Francisco R.,
Class of 2016
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Our network of 240,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.
FAQs
The MAMFT degree requires a minimum of 45 credit hours at the graduate level beyond the bachelor’s degree. While not required for graduation, students who need to complete a program requiring more than 45 credits and up to 60-credits or who need specific additional courses for their state licensure requirements will be allowed to complete optional elective courses to meet these requirements, which will constitute the total credit requirements for graduation from the program.
The University may accept a maximum of 15 semester credit hours in transfer toward the master’s degree for graduate coursework completed toward a graduate degree at an accredited college or university with a grade of “B” or better. Transfer credit is only awarded for course work that is evaluated to be substantially equivalent in content to the required course work in the MAMFT program. Transfer credit is only awarded for course work that is evaluated to be substantially equivalent in content to the required course work in the MAMFT program. See the Transfer Credit Policy for additional information.
The MAMFT program has the following graduation requirements:
- A minimum of 36 credit hours of graduate instruction must be completed through NU
- Successful completion of all required degree program courses with a Grade Point Average of 3.0 (letter grade of “B”) or higher
- Official documents on file for basis of admission: a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution
- Official transcripts on file for all transfer credit hours accepted by the University
- All financial obligations must be met before the student will be issued their complimentary diploma and/or degree posted transcript
Beyond these standard graduation requirements, the MAMFT program has the following degree requirements:
Online Video Conferencing – In order to complete some of the course requirements and to participate in the online supervision process that is used during the practicum and internship courses, students are required to participate in several online video conferencing meetings throughout their time in the program. In order to participate in these video conference sessions, students are required to own or otherwise have access to a computer, a web cam, a headset, a video recording device, and a high-speed internet connection.
Client Contact – MAMFT students will be required to complete 300 hours of direct client contact, which includes conducting face-to-face therapy with individuals, couples, families, and groups. At least 150 hours of client contact must be relational (e.g., couple or family). See section below for new client contact requirements starting January 1, 2022. For more information, please read the practicum and internship course descriptions or the Clinical Training Handbook.
Supervision – In conjunction with client contact, MAMFT students must receive a total of 100 hours of supervision, at least fifty-two (52) of which must be individual supervision conducted by an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, AAMFT Supervisor Candidate, or state-approved supervisor. At least 50 of the supervision hours must also involve a supervisor’s review of the student’s therapy with clients via video/audio recording or live observation. See section below for new client contact requirements starting January 1, 2022. In some cases, students may be required to pay for local supervision. This will depend on the clinical placement location and/or local supervisor they contract with to complete their practicum and internship requirements. The decision and responsibility to pay for local supervision is entirely up to the student and not a requirement of NU.
Liability Insurance – Prior to beginning any clinical experience, students are required to submit proof of professional liability insurance. This is included with a student membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (for California students it is also included in the student membership in the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists).
Clinical Hours Tracking – the MAMFT program uses a web-based system to document completion of clinical hours. Students, local approved clinical supervisors and NU faculty training supervisors all have access to the system in order to support the successful completion of the clinical training requirements for the program. Students will be allowed access to the system upon request after they have completed at least six courses.
- Family / Behavioral Therapist
- Family/ School / General Social Work
- Medical Office / Practice Manager
- Mental Health / Behavioral Counselor
- Social / Human Services Manager
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- And many more, in public and private facilities of all different sizes!
*Positions may require additional experience, training and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Many roles may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met.
*As of May 2023, Kansas and New Hampshire do not or may not accept the NU MAMFT degree as meeting their educational requirements for licensure. Please review your local MFT license requirements to make sure you will meet local requirements.
State Supervision Requirements
Each state has rules and regulations outlining the requirements regarding the supervision experience, how many supervision hours are required, and the requirements for someone to be accepted as a supervisor in their state. In addition, some states specifically count client contact hours and supervision hours completed during the practicum experience at a COAMFTE-accredited program as applicable to post-graduate requirements.
Ask a Licensure Question
While each state board is the ultimate authority on their own rules and regulations governing the practice of marriage and family therapy in their state, sometimes it is difficult to know where to start or what to ask. If you are an applicant, student, or alumni and you have a question about licensure in your state do one or both of the following:
- Each state has rules and regulations outlining the types of licenses offered, requirements for licensure, including specific educational components, post-graduation clinical experience and supervision, and examination requirements. Licensure requirements are subject to change, so you must keep up with the current licensure legislation in your state.
- Contact our Clinical Training Administrative Team at MFTTraining@nu.edu.
Click here to view licensure requirements by state.
Additional Information and Student Resources
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
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