In Marriage and Family Counseling and other related graduate degree programs, students learn how to address intimate and highly sensitive scenarios with state-of-the-art scientific methods. As family dynamics change over time, especially with the introduction of different social outlets, cultural mores, and technologies, these top online masters programs prepare students for the complexities of modern relationships.
Each of these schools employs brilliant faculty members that impart effective lessons and professional experiences that are a huge benefit to students’ understanding of human behavior and thought processes, as well as healthy ways in which to address problems and mental disabilities.
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Check out our “Things to Consider” section:
Is there job security in Marriage and Family Counseling?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the job outlook for Marriage and Family Therapists/Counselors at 22% over the next 5-7 years, which is much faster than average, making this an incredibly pertinent time to apply to one of these outstanding online schools.
What is the expected pay for a Marriage and Family Counselor?
The salary for a Marriage and Family Counselor is $49,610 annually, as of May 2019. The top 10% earned upwards of $87.700 per year.
Who hires Marriage and Family Counselors?
In addition to opening your own practice, establishments like hospitals, schools, and local health clinics often hire counselors who are professionally trained to help out in family situations or to repair a marriage. In addition, sex therapists are employed by health-related clinics and through private practices.
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QUICK LINKS
- Top Online Schools for Masters in Sex Therapy and Marriage/Family Counseling
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Online Schools Center has done the research for you. If you are seeking a profession in the healthcare field, check this out: Healthcare, Behavioral Science and Nursing Degrees
For a doctoral program, see: 14 Best Online Schools for Doctorate in Counseling Degree Programs
Top Online Schools for Masters in Sex Therapy and Marriage/Family Counseling
METHODOLOGY: In developing this list, OnlineSchoolsCenter.com chose not to list the schools in an ordered way but instead highlighted the Top Online Schools for Master’s in Sex Therapy and Marriage/Family Counseling degree programs, all of which have their own unique strengths. These schools were chosen for several factors that put them ahead of other online programs, due to the:
- Nature of the coursework; focusing on Sex Therapy and Marriage/Family Counseling,
- Degree of thoroughness and complexity of the curriculum,
- Offered through a 100% Online Distance Learning Format,
- Provides sufficient Financial Aid availability,
- Offers an education that gives students more than just classroom experience, but encourages classroom participation, as well as group discussions, field experiences, and class lectures,
- Provides opportunities for work on a thesis project, if applicable,
- Offers accelerated track options, if applicable,
- Gain valuable skills needed to solve critical issues within the Marriage/Family dynamic,
- Instructs on the legalities and ethical aspects of Sex Therapy and Marriage/Family Counseling,
- Displays proper Accreditation,
- Taught by well-qualified professors in the field.
To learn more, please see our Methodology page.
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WALDEN UNIVERSITY
Master’s in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling Distance Learning Degree Programs
Program Standouts:
Walden University is another of the country’s premier online schools, that has been repeatedly recognized for its academic achievements. In a curriculum designed by leading counseling organizations, distance education students have access to a master’s degree in which they gain experience in diagnosing mental and emotional disorders and resolving conflicts.
Campus Location: Minneapolis, MN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Types of Aid: Discount opportunities; limited-time savings; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in a relevant field.
Program Options:
- General Program
- Addiction Counseling
- Career Counseling
- Forensic Counseling
- Military Families and Culture
- Trauma and Crisis Counseling
Degree Outcomes:
This matchless online school gives students an education that allows them to expand their careers in a huge range of areas, such as inpatient facilities, employee assistance programs, schools, and head start centers, social services agencies, and more! The curriculum prepares students for any and all state credentialing examinations.
Learn more about Walden University’s Online Master’s degree in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling Programs
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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
MA in Marriage & Family Therapy Degree Online
Program Standouts:
Liberty University is perhaps the most well-known online school in the country and delivers an equally renowned Master in Marriage and Family Therapy that is ranked in the top five programs in the nation, according to their website. Coursework focuses on individual and group counseling theories and techniques, as well as clinical practice.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Tuition and Fees:
- $615 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; federal and state grants; institutional and external scholarship opportunities; corporate tuition assistance; student employment programs; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 29.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher, GRE/GMAT scores, a personal statement, a letter of intent, and two letters of recommendation, as well as TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Human Sexuality
- Counseling Children, Adolescents, and Their Families
- Career Development and Counseling
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from Liberty University MFT program will have access to potential careers in-hospital programs, mental health agencies, ministry-related fields, counseling centers, public or private institutions, and private practices. Alumni have an incredibly strong understanding of the field and are a valuable asset in any environment.
Learn more about Liberty University’s Online MA in Marriage & Family Therapy Degree Program
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AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY
Marriage and Family Therapy online degree
Program Standouts:
Amridge University gives Marriage and Family Therapy online graduate students extensive experiences in the foundations of the therapeutic theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. Students are trained in a wide range of techniques that are relevant to modern challenges and scenarios.
Campus Location: Montgomery, AL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $650 per semester hour (full-time); $750 per semester hour (part-time)—tuition
- $65 per semester hour—course fee
- $110 per semester—online service fee
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; federal and state grants; institutional, departmental, state, and external scholarship opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing an exemplary GPA in a relevant field.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Human Sexual Development
- Assessment of Individuals and Families
- Professional Ethics and the Law
Degree Outcomes:
Amridge University’s well-structured online MFT curriculum in which a major goal is to prepare students for licensure in their home state. Coursework is also designed to prepare students for work in church settings, private practices, government agencies, and community agencies.
Learn more about Amridge University’s Marriage and Family Therapy Distance Learning Program
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GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY
Online MS of Professional Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Program Standouts:
Grand Canyon University is an incredibly well-recognized online school that provides a Master in Professional Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Students learn experience in professional counseling models and practice, ethics, social and cultural foundations, research, and professional growth and development.
Campus Location: Phoenix, AZ
Accreditation: North Central Association of College and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $500 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and alternative loans; federal and state grants; institutional, state, military, and external scholarship opportunities; various payment plans; military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 66.9%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher, GRE/GMAT scores, and financial aid documentation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Diagnostics, Assessment, and Treatment
- Evaluation of Mental and Emotional Status
- Diversity in Family Systems
Degree Outcomes:
Alumni from this excellent program are trained to pursue careers as counselors, behavioral health counselors, and/or mental health counselors. Students have an in-depth understanding of the role, value, and benefits of family systems theory and perspectives of couples and family dynamics with diverse groups.
Learn more about Grand Canyon University’s Online MS of Professional Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy Degree Program
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CALIFORNIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
MA in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy E-Learning Degree Program
Program Standouts:
California Southern University’s online Master in Psychology is specifically designed for students who are interested in marriage and family therapy or clinical counseling. Students learn in-depth techniques and develop personal traits essential to effective practice.
Campus Location: Costa Mesa, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition and Fees:
- $75 one time—application fee
- $475 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; federal and state grants; institutional and outside scholarship opportunities; various interest-free payment plans; third-party payments; military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 13%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, a personal statement, and an enrollment agreement.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Systems of Family Therapy
- Group Counseling
- Crisis and Trauma Counseling
Degree Outcomes:
This online degree program fully prepares students to sit for any and all qualifying examinations for marriage and family therapy and licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California. Graduates have a strong understanding of psychotherapeutic techniques and ethical and cultural issues.
Learn more about California Southern University’s Online MA in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy E-Learning Degree Program
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Recommended Schools
MESSIAH COLLEGE
Online Ma in Counseling: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Program Standouts:
This online school offers a c in which coursework is rooted in the tenants of Christianity, and designed in accordance with guidelines set forth by the CACREP. This curriculum is perfect for novice counselors to advance their understanding and skills through developmental learning models.
Campus Location: Mechanicsburg, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Universities; Council of Accreditation for Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Tuition and Fees:
- $50 one time—application fee
- $625 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; federal and state grants; tuition discounts and reimbursement; employer tuition assistance; student employment programs; veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, a completed Counseling Programs Admissions Essay, and a current résumé or CV. Applicants must also complete an interview with an admissions representative, either in person or via video conference.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Foundations of Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
- Psychopathology and Diagnosis across the Lifespan
- Contemporary and Integrative Theories of Family Counseling
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this fine program will have all of the knowledge and experience necessary to sit for licensure in family therapy examinations in their home states. This award-winning program, as well as the numerous MC student resources, drastically advance individuals’ standing and abilities within the field.
Learn more about Messiah College’s Online MA of Counseling: Marriage, Couple and Family Degree Program
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TOURO UNIVERSITY WORLDWIDE
Distance Learning Master in Marriage and Family Therapy Degree
Program Standouts:
This online Master in Marriage and Family Therapy is unique in that it involves: treating couples, families, and the family system; present-day problems instead of historical or intra-psychic conflict; and understanding interpersonal relationships as a way of identifying and treating mental health problems. Students learn holistic patient treatment plans to address issues such as chemical dependency, substance abuse, eating disorders, and disorders of childhood and adolescence.
Campus Location: Los Alamitos, CA 100% Online
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission; California Board of Behavior Sciences
Tuition and Fees:
- $500 per semester credit unit—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; institutional and outside/private agency scholarship and award opportunities; employer tuition assistance.
Acceptance Rate: 33.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed application and official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
Program Options:
- Clinical
- Non-Clinical
- Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling
Degree Outcomes:
Online students exiting this impressive program have the strength of understanding to approach serious familial and marriage scenarios with a high level of success, as well as interpersonal relationships as a way of treating mental health problems. Graduates are prepared to sit for any and all licensing examinations.
Learn more about Touro University Worldwide’s Master in Marriage and Family Therapy Distance Learning Program
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REGENT UNIVERSITY
Online Ma in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Program Standouts:
Regent University is yet another of America’s finest online schools offering a Master in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling. This strong degree program integrates sound and ethical clinical practice, skills and techniques, and biblically-based values in a curriculum that covers a wide variety of areas.
Campus Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; Council of Accreditation for Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Tuition and Fees:
- $595 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; federal, state, and institutional grants; institutional, church-based, and outside scholarship opportunities; various payment plans; corporate partnerships; military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 79.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, a personal statement, personal recommendation, writing samples, and a photograph (optional). Applicants must also complete an interview via telephone.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Psychopathology & Diagnosis
- Models of Family Therapy
- Theories of Human Sexuality
Degree Outcomes:
This online program trains students as incredibly successful family counselors who will find work in private practices, schools, mental health facilities, and public agencies. The coursework is designed to give students all of the tools necessary to pass state licensing examinations.
Learn more about Regent University’s Distance Learning Degree Program in Master’s of Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
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PALO ALTO UNIVERSITY
Ma in Counseling: Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling Online Degree Program
Program Standouts:
Palo Alto University provides an online Master in Counseling: Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling that is specifically geared toward preparing students for future licensure. The curriculum includes extensive hours in clinical practicums in their local area that drastically affect one’s understanding of the field.
Campus Location: Palo Alto, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Colleges and Schools; American Psychological Association
Tuition and Fees:
- $50 one time—application fee
- $542 per unit—tuition and fees
Types of Aid: Federal and private/alternative loans; federal and state grants; institutional and outside scholarship and fellowship opportunities; student employment programs.
Acceptance Rate: 30.27%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution representing a GPA of 3.0 or higher, a current résumé or CV, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
Program Options:
- Human Sexuality
- Crisis and Trauma Counseling
- Child and Adolescent Counseling
Degree Outcomes:
This online program prepares students to sit for any and all licensing examinations. Graduates have a sound understanding of modern counseling techniques and have accrued a vast amount of field experience throughout the coursework. Some job settings include inpatient and outpatient care facilities, hospitals, religious organizations, nursing homes, and more!
Learn more about Palo Alto University’s MA in Counseling: Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling Online Degree Program
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CAMPBELLSVILLE UNIVERSITY
Online Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT), Social Work, and Theology Degrees
Program Standouts:
Campbellsville University gives students a unique perspective into the field of Marriage and Family Therapy by melding the coursework of three different key disciplines: Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Theology. Students in this online school learn in an intimate, interactive, Christian, virtual environment.
Campus Location: Campbellsville, KY
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $399 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and state loans; federal, state, and institutional grants; institutional and church-based scholarship opportunities; student employment programs; military and veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 68.6%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, three letters of recommendation, a letter of interest rubric, and a 500-750 word personal essay.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Marriage and Family Counseling I, II, and III
- Cultural Competencies
- Psychopathology
Degree Outcomes:
This fine school prepares students with a huge range and fascinating perspective of an incredibly complex discipline, which in turn helps alumni guide future clients both psychologically and spiritually. Graduates are steeped in counseling ethics and have the ability to work in churches, government agencies, social services, and more.
Learn more about Campbellsville University’s Online Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Theology
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CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY ONLINE
MS in Family LIfe Distance Learning Degree Program
Program Standouts:
This online school provides a Master in Family Life Education with a “Christ-centered approach… that allows students to holistically address critical needs.” The curriculum utilizes modern theories and approaches to navigate issues within family units and is taught by internationally recognized leaders.
Campus Location: Mequon, WI
Accreditation: National Academy of Higher Education
Tuition and Fees:
- $565 per credit hour—tuition
Types of Aid: Federal and private loans; institutional grants; institutional and outside scholarship opportunities; local business, civic organization, and church-based awards; employer tuition assistance; veterans’ benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 91%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution, a completed admissions essay, and a current résumé.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Marriage and Family Relations
- Family Law and Public Policy
- Human Sexuality
Degree Outcomes:
Students exiting this program are recognized as Certified Family Life Educators and significantly contribute to creating healthfully functioning family units. Some career paths for these graduates include family financial counseling and planning, social service worker, child welfare advocate, and family policy analyst.
Learn more about Concordia University’s MS in Family LIfe Distance Learning Degree Program
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What opportunities are available with an online Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Counseling?
Upon graduation from your online Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Counseling degree program, you will be equipped to accept the challenges of a wide variety of career opportunities. In many cases, to pursue a career in counseling, you will need to gain licensure per your state’s requirements.
Perhaps the most common job option to consider is that of a Marriage and Family Therapist. Licensed therapists in this area of expertise assess the overall status of a couple or family’s well-being. They act as a neutral party to help a family discuss their emotional needs and struggles, as well as offer solutions or tools to help them co-exist.
Other possible career options include a Substance Abuse Counselor who specializes in alcohol or drug abuse. They also work closely with families that are affected by a loved one’s addiction. If divorce is imminent, Divorce Therapists help individuals handle the emotional and psychological issues surrounding divorce, in addition to the emotional well-being of the children of divorced parents. Also, within every school system, School Counselors are needed to deal with the social and psychological problems displayed in today’s schools. Many families depend on a third party to help them solve issues related to learning in the classroom, along with their behavioral problems at home.
Where can you find a job as a counselor or therapist? Most healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, or outpatient centers, hire Marriage and Family Counselors. Positions can also be found in mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, group homes, schools, churches, and family service agencies who specialize in the field. You may also opt to open your own private practice.
What will I learn in an online Sex Therapy and Marriage/Family Counseling degree program?
Earning an online Master’s degree in the field of Sex Therapy or Marriage and Family Counseling will prepare you for many career options. Effective counseling can only be accomplished through careful research and analysis, as well as the most innovative and up-to-date procedures and techniques used today. Through the rigorous coursework offered through an online Master of Sex Therapy or Marriage and Family Counseling degree program, you will be up for the task!
What will you learn? Coursework should include Child Psychology, Human Sexuality, Couples Therapy, Counseling Theories, Research and Strategies, Interpersonal Communications, Psychopathology, Career Legalities, and Ethics, Human Development, Family Dynamics, as well as Cross-Cultural Counseling Intervention, among many other crucial topics.
In addition, you can expect to complete a supervised practicum in which you will gain valuable experience working in a clinical setting with couples, families, or children. Two years of post-masters experience may also be required before you will qualify to take your state’s licensing examination. Most often, earning your Master’s degree in Sex Therapy or Marriage/Family Counseling can be easily obtained through an accredited online distance learning format.
What’s the difference in Sex Therapy and Marriage Counseling, and which career choice is right for me?
If a client or couple has a problem, they need to go to the correct kind of therapist that can offer them the most assistance, without a doubt. When you are considering earning a master’s degree, you may be unsure of what type of degree you really need. Perhaps the answer lies within your true interests.
While sexual communication issues are at the root of many couple’s problems, Marriage Counselors are not always equipped to handle sexual problems. On the flip side, Sexual Therapists do specialize in sex, as it applies to an individual or as a couple. You may consider Sex Therapy as a “specialization” of Marriage/Family Counseling.
In addition, governing bodies, such as the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), oversee that certain standards are withheld in the field of Sex Therapy and related professions.
Of course, some Marriage Therapists are actually trained to handle sexual issues; however, they are often better trained to help couples with communication and strengthening the marital or family relationship. A Sex Therapist is often qualified as both a Marriage and Sex Therapist. Sex Therapists also work with those who have suffered sexual trauma, sexual addiction, or sexual disorders.
Which option is best for you? If you desire to help others with sexual issues, as well as other marriage or family issues, a Sexual Therapy distinction or specialization will allow you to help more people. In either application, earning an online Sex Therapy or Marriage/Family Master’s degree will provide you with a rewarding career.
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